“‘Dare to Resist’ means refusing to be silent in the face of injustice. It means living boldly and authentically, even when the world tells you not to.”
Julie is a proud transgender woman who once feared for her life simply for existing. Growing up and living in Uganda — one of the most dangerous countries in the world for LGBTQI+ people — Julie was arrested, assaulted, and targeted for her identity and activism. “The constant threats to my life, arrests, and violence I endured made it impossible for me to live safely,” she recalls.
In a desperate search for safety, Julie reached out to Rainbow Railroad. What followed was a journey across borders — and into a new life.
A Lifeline to Freedom
After fleeing to Kenya to escape persecution, Julie's path led her to Canada, where she now lives in Toronto. It’s the first place she’s been able to call “home” — not just in terms of geography, but in the freedom to live authentically. “Canada is now my home, a place where I can finally live without fear of violence or persecution,” she says.
Rainbow Railroad supported Julie's safe resettlement and helped connect her with community groups that offered both practical and emotional support. “Their support didn’t just move me to safety — it allowed me to start healing,” she says. “I now have a future. I’m rebuilding my life in Toronto, surrounded by people who see me and celebrate me. That gift is beyond words.”
Solidarity Is Survival
Resettlement hasn’t been easy. Adjusting to a new culture while healing from trauma takes time, Julie admits. But community solidarity made all the difference. “The support from LGBTQI+ groups, allies, and friends helped me feel seen, heard, and embraced like I truly belong.”
For LGBTQI+ newcomers, Julie emphasizes the need for safe housing, healthcare — especially gender-affirming care — and opportunities to thrive. “Solidarity means listening without judgment, advocating for inclusive policies, and creating safe spaces where we can rebuild our lives.”
And resistance, she says, doesn’t always look like protest. “Resistance is not just protest — it’s also love, protection, and creating space for people to be who they are.”
“Dare to Resist” — and Choose Joy
To Julie, this year’s Pride theme — Solidarity in Pride: Dare to Resist — is deeply personal. “To me, ‘Dare to Resist’ means refusing to be silent in the face of injustice. It means living boldly and authentically, even when the world tells you not to. I dared to resist by standing up for LGBTQI+ rights in Uganda, and by surviving when everything around me said I shouldn’t.”
Joy, too, is a form of resistance. For Julie, joy comes from dancing, wearing clothes that reflect her true self, being with friends who love her, and witnessing others in the community thrive. “Pride is a celebration of survival, resilience, and joy. It reminds us that we are worthy of love, safety, and dignity.”
This year, she plans to celebrate Pride by marching with other LGBTQI+ newcomers and sharing her story.
A Message of Hope for Those Still in Danger
To anyone facing persecution, Julie offers this message: “You are not alone. I know it may feel impossible right now, but there is a world beyond this pain. People care about you — even if you’ve never met them. Hold on to who you are, because who you are is powerful, worthy, and needed.”
That’s what Rainbow Railroad represents for her — and for thousands more around the world. “It means hope. It means someone is fighting for you, even when your own country or family turns their back. Rainbow Railroad’s work is a beacon — proof that we matter, and that we are never truly alone.”
You can be part of that hope. Support life-changing work for LGBTQI+ people like Julie by donating today. Every gift is an act of solidarity — and a step toward queer liberation..