When D’John arrived in Toronto from Jamaica, he was seeking something many take for granted — the chance to live freely, without fear. As a gay man, life back home was filled with threats, isolation, and rejection. Reaching out to Rainbow Railroad was his first step toward reclaiming his future.
Today, he stands proudly in his truth. With safety, support, and a growing sense of purpose, he now calls Canada home. And this Pride, he’s not just celebrating — he’s daring to resist.
A Journey Marked by Healing and Belonging
For many LGBTQI+ newcomers, the journey to freedom is long, complex, and challenging. But it’s also filled with moments of profound growth.
“My resettlement journey has been filled with lots of tears, healing, and growth,” D'John shares. “I found community through my network, especially by volunteering with grassroots organizations. That’s where I began to feel connected — like I belonged.”
This year, he’ll be celebrating Pride at Toronto’s iconic Green Space Festival at The 519, surrounded by friends, chosen family, and community. “Pride means I can live freely. That I don’t have to hide any part of myself. I’m finally whole.”
Embracing Change, Challenging the Norm
This year’s Pride theme, Solidarity in Pride: Dare to Resist, resonates deeply with him.
“To me, ‘Dare to Resist’ means resisting the status quo. It means daring to rewrite our present,” D'John says.
He believes resistance can take many forms — from visibility to leadership, from refusing silence to seeking justice. “Right now, the queer community needs to resist the urge to accept what has always been,” he urges. “We must strive to be represented at every level.”
From Isolation to Community
His message for those resettling today is clear: newcomers need holistic, wraparound support. “When you move to a new country, you have to rewire your entire life.”
He’s seen firsthand the power of solidarity in helping others feel less isolated. “We need people to step up — donate time, donate money, learn about the community. Get involved.”
For him, that support made all the difference. Rainbow Railroad, he says, didn’t just help him escape — they gave him a reason to live. “Their support gave me the opportunity to live, not just exist.”
Joy, Resistance, and the Power of Family
In a world where queer lives are still under threat, joy becomes a radical act — and his greatest source of joy is his family.
And when he wants to feel uplifted and affirmed, he turns to the powerful anthem Stand Up by Cynthia Erivo. “It makes me feel proud of who I am.”
To him, queer liberation means more than survival. “It’s owning our identities and wearing them intentionally,” he says.
A Message of Strength for Others
To LGBTQI+ people still facing persecution, his message is one of unwavering hope.
“You matter. You do have a right to be you. And you will be strong — and live.”
He knows the journey isn’t easy. But he also knows that the work Rainbow Railroad is doing is transformational. “It’s so needed. I just wish there was even more that could be done to expand this work to reach more people.”
And as for what gives him hope? “My own personal goals,” he says, simply.
From a moment of darkness to a life filled with purpose, this is what transformation looks like. This is what resistance looks like.
This Pride season, show your solidarity not just in celebration, but in action. Support queer and trans people on their path to safety. Donate now.