"Rainbow Railroad didn’t just open a door for me; they walked beside me as I stepped through it."
As part of Rainbow Railroad’s efforts to better respond to LGBTQI+ refugees’ resettlement needs, we launched a Queer Refugee Internship Program last year for refugees who have an interest in contributing their lived expertise to the global forced displacement response. Our program provides a unique opportunity for refugees to gain vital work experience, learn new skills, and connect with professionals while elevating the voices of queer refugees.
We’re highlighting the stories of interns who joined us for the second cohort of our Queer Refugee Internship Program. In this post, Luna shares their experiences as part of the Events Team.
To live openly and safely as a queer Afro-Latina is something I never took for granted. As I navigated the complexities of trauma, healing, and hope, I never imagined I would find myself interning at an organization, Rainbow Railroad, that would make me feel safe and make self-expression possible.
I began my internship in April 2025 as part of the Queer Refugee Internship Program (QRI), a three-month opportunity that provides vital professional experience to queer people like me. I was selected for the Event Coordinator role, supporting one of Rainbow Railroad’s largest undertakings, Freedom Party, as well as other communications and engagement projects.
From the very first day, I felt seen, not only for my lived experience but for my potential. My role allowed me to lean into my creative and logistics strengths, from developing run-of-show documents and coordinating with talent and venues, to supporting the visual identity of Freedom Party and beyond. I got to bring the energy and joy of my Caribbean roots, my detail-oriented mind, and my passion for liberation to every task.
Working on Freedom Party, Rainbow Railroad’s flagship Pride Month event, was both exhilarating and deeply meaningful. It wasn’t just about organizing logistics; it was about holding space for queer joy, resistance, and community. I saw what it meant to create safety through celebration. I watched people dance, connect, and feel free. And I knew I helped make that possible.
One of the people who made this journey even more powerful was Craig, Rainbow Railroad’s Senior Engagement Officer, Event Management. His mentorship and encouragement shaped my experience in ways I’ll never forget. Craig is, without exaggeration, one of the best supervisors, co-workers, and collaborators I’ve ever had. His thoughtful guidance and genuine care reminded me that leadership can be rooted in kindness and mutual respect. I learned so much just by watching how he moved through the world.
Beyond events, my time at Rainbow Railroad deepened my understanding of what advocacy in action looks like. I worked alongside people who care deeply, move with purpose, and trust in the leadership of those most impacted. I found mentorship, collaboration, and a place where I could bring my whole self, including my disabilities, neurodivergence, and lived experience as a survivor, without shame.
Although my internship ended, I carry with me a deeper confidence in my voice, skills, and capacity to contribute meaningfully in professional spaces. I’ve also built lifelong connections, and I now know the value of networks where care, belonging, and community are central ingredients and not afterthoughts.
To other queer refugees wondering what’s possible for them: I see you. I was you. And I hope you apply for the QRI program. Rainbow Railroad didn’t just open a door for me; they walked beside me as I stepped through it.
Gracias por creer en mí, por abrirme las puertas, y por recordarme que lo imposible también puede ser hogar. (Thank you for believing in me, for opening doors for me, and for reminding me that the impossible can also be home.)
The second cohort of our Queer Refugee Internship program was made possible by CUPE National and the La Fondation Emmanuelle Gattuso. To learn more or support the program, please contact lnugent@rainbowrailroad.org.