“My resettlement journey has been full of challenges, but also filled with unexpected joy,” Kendra shares.
Born and raised in Mandeville, Jamaica, Kendra lived with a target on her back. As a queer woman and an outspoken advocate for LGBTQI+ rights, she faced relentless violence, harassment, and threats. But instead of staying silent, she dared to resist.
“I poured my heart into creating safe spaces,” she says. “But the risks became too great to bear. Reaching out to Rainbow Railroad was my way of holding onto hope — of finding safety, freedom, and a chance to continue this work without fear.”
That leap of faith changed everything. Today, she lives in Hampton, Virginia, where she’s built a life full of love, safety, and pride, with a family.
Building a New Life
Resettling in a new country wasn’t easy, but it was possible, thanks to the power of community.
“My resettlement journey has been full of challenges, but also filled with unexpected joy,” Kendra shares. “I never imagined that as a queer woman from Jamaica — where loving openly put my life at risk — I’d one day meet my partner and build a life together. Now we’re raising a beautiful child, surrounded by love and safety. The support and solidarity from community members made that dream real.”
She stresses that newcomers need more than shelter. They need connection.
“People can show solidarity by showing up — volunteering, listening, advocating, and creating welcoming spaces where LGBTQI+ newcomers can heal, grow, and thrive.”
Pride as Resistance
In a world increasingly hostile to queer and trans communities, Kendra sees Pride not just as a celebration, but as a necessity.
“With so many anti-LGBTQ+ laws and rising hostility, it doesn’t always feel safe to celebrate,” she says. “But that’s exactly why we must. This year, I celebrated Pride with my partner and our child, showing up safely, with intention, and in solidarity — because our existence is resistance.”
That resistance is also personal.
“‘Dare to Resist’ means choosing to live authentically, even when the world pushes back. It’s about creating space where we can love freely, raise our families, and build futures without the weight of persecution.”
A Future Fueled by Hope
Eight years since Kendra first reached out to Rainbow Railroad, she is no longer just someone the organization supported — she’s part of the team.
“I still receive support — guidance, resources, and the emotional strength that comes from knowing there’s a community that truly cares. But now, I also get to pour that same care and commitment into others. This work is deeply personal. Every story I encounter reminds me of why we do what we do.”
She holds onto hope — hope rooted in love, visibility, and community.
“What makes me hopeful is seeing Adrianna” — her child — “love unconditionally, and knowing that love, in all its forms, is powerful and transformative. Watching her grow up in a world where love is celebrated fills me with hope.”
A Call to Action
To anyone facing persecution because of who they are, Kendra offers this: “I see you, and I believe in you. There is a future where you can live authentically and without fear. Your existence is a powerful act of resistance.”
And to those wondering how to help: “Educate yourself. Show up in tangible ways. Support organizations like Rainbow Railroad. Resistance is about solidarity, and every act of kindness, understanding, and support makes a difference.”
You can be part of this journey too. Help more LGBTQI+ people find safety and freedom. Donate today.