Issue 24
The Freedom Issue
Introducing HUNGER 24: The Freedom issue.
In a world where human rights and civil liberties are in jeopardy, we’re looking to celebrate some of the freedoms we do enjoy. From the power of live music, film and television to politicians who are truly doing the work, it’s more important than ever to champion the mediums and talent who bring us joy in uncertain times.
Our new issue is fronted by a slew of exciting talents, who give voice to all the myriad meanings and associations behind the weighty topic of freedom. First up, we have Daisy Edgar-Jones, whose portrayal of first love in the television adaptation of Normal People brought joy to so many at the start of the pandemic. We speak to musician Tim Burgess, who provided connection by hosting Twitter Listening Parties during lockdown. And we also have rising star, Bukky Bakray, who became the youngest BAFTA Rising Star Award recipient for her work in Rocks.
Then, we chat to Labour MP Zarah Sultana, whose life’s work is ensuring that the people of the UK are afforded the freedom they so deserve, and Dublin band Fontaines DC, who are highlighting the struggles that are faced by today’s youth and the IIrish diaspora. Rounding out our cover stars is 18-year-old Kit Connor, whose empowering and vulnerable portrayal of adolescent queer love made him an overnight star.
In our Speaker’s Corner section, experts discuss everything from the fragile state of abortion rights in the United States to why Caribbean countries are stepping away from the British monarchy. Publisher, Khalid Abdel-Hadi speaks movingly about the intersection of being Arab and queer, and Nim Ralph emphasises the real need for the LGBTQIA+ community to unite against the British government’s U-turn on banning conversion therapy for trans people. We also feature the stunning artwork of Nigerian artist Oluwole Omofemi, whose portraits of Black women and their natural hair seek to uplift and enfranchise.
We then felt the need to tackle what freedom means post-lockdown. Our new Sex Please report explores how our desires and sexual appetite have transformed, and Hedonism Hangover dissects rave culture and its evolution into something more considered. Next up, fashion Freedom traces the journey of queer style into the mainstream consciousness. And of course, there wouldn’t be an issue of HUNGER without some innovative beauty and fashion editorials to feast your eyes on. This time around we took inspiration from nature and the human form, courtesy of Valentino, Fendace, Dior and many more…
