News and Press

In just 60 seconds, an LGBTQI+ person can be forced to flee their home.

While we wish we could help everyone who reaches out to us, our capacity is limited by our resources and the legal complexities and constraints of international refugee law and travel.

As the confirmation of Trump’s re-election settles, we face a pivotal moment in our mission to support and protect at-risk LGBTQI+ refugees, asylees, and asylum seekers. This crucial time reinforces the urgent need to mobilize and stand united for equality and justice. What we are certain of is that this moment clarifies our path forward: we must rally together with unwavering resolve to meet the anticipated challenges for our community if this new administration implements many of the anti-immigration and anti-LGBTQI+ policies it has proposed. Our community has proven its strength and resilience. Despite the changing landscape and rising threats to the rights of LGBTQI+ refugees, asylees, and asylum seekers, we have made significant strides in defending and advancing our mission. Together, we’ve fought back against discriminatory laws and policies, securing vital victories, and raised awareness about the realities faced by forcibly displaced LGBTQI+ people. As a community, we’ve supported those seeking safety, dignity and freedom — helping countless LGBTQI+ people find safety in safe cities in the U.S. The power of queer organizing and community action has always been our greatest strength, and together, we’ve shown what is possible when we stand united.We are working behind the scenes to ensure we do more to support LGBTQI+ refugees, asylum seekers and asylees in the U.S., and will share more with our community as we have updates. If you have questions about what the election results could mean for your immigration status, please reach out to us at community@rainbowrailroad.org. With so much at risk, now more than ever, we need your support. Together, we can power change. Help us fuel the fight by donating to ensure that the hundreds of LGBTQI+ refugees, asylum seekers, and asylees who are depending on us will not be left behind.To our entire community: we acknowledge your fears, your grief, your anger, and all of the other emotions you may be feeling. We cannot do this without you. We are now in crisis mode and we urgently need your support to continue our vital work. We will move forward. Nothing will stop us. As James Baldwin said: “There is never a time in the future in which we will work out our salvation. The challenge is in the moment; the time is always now.”Let’s get to work.

For every $100 you raise by 11:59pm on November 15th, 2024, you’ll earn an entry to win a pair of tickets to Taylor Swift’s SOLD-OUT Eras Tour stop in Toronto on November 22nd!

In a powerful show of solidarity and support, Rainbow Railroad took part in the official launch of the Latin American Network on Forced Displacement in Mexico City from May 15 to 17. This pivotal event brought together queer organizations from across Latin America, united in their mission to address the urgent challenges faced by LGBTQI+ individuals forced to flee their homes through various migration routes in Latin America.The network's creation stems from a dire need to provide targeted support and advocacy for LGBTQI+ people on the move. With many countries in the region posing significant risks to queer individuals, the network fills a crucial gap. It's a unique, collective effort focused on addressing LGBTQI+ human mobility.Held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the launch saw participation from several embassies, including the American and Canadian Embassies, along with Mexican officials and the United Nations Refugee Agency. The event's timing, coinciding with the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia on May 17, underscored the global commitment to combating LGBTQI+ discrimination.Rainbow Railroad's role was significant. As a sub-granting organization of the ACTIF (Act Together for Inclusion Fund), the project that helped establish the network, we were not only witnesses but active participants, signing the declaration as allies of the network. This involvement highlights our dedication to supporting international initiatives that protect LGBTQI+ rights.The network comprises a remarkable coalition of organizations working tirelessly to support LGBTQI+ individuals across Latin America. These include Casa Frida from Mexico, Derechos Humanos y Diversidad AC from Argentina, Corporación Red Somos from Colombia, Asociación Lambda from Guatemala, and many others from countries including Venezuela, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Peru, Nicaragua, Ecuador, and Honduras.Danilo Manzano, the Executive Director of Diálogo Diverso and the current secretariat of the network, shares valuable insights on the network’s inception and its vital role: “The network was established to fill a critical gap, ensuring coordinated support for LGBTQI+ individuals in forced displacement. Its unique focus and collective governance make it stand out.” Danilo also highlights the importance of strengthening the network's capacity and international advocacy efforts.Looking forward, the network aims to secure funding for people living with HIV within its portfolio and enhance its internal structures for better international advocacy. Rainbow Railroad remains committed to collaborating with the network, identifying global opportunities for advocacy, and addressing the broader issues of forced displacement.Our participation in the Latin American Network on Forced Displacement launch is a testament to our ongoing commitment to global LGBTQI+ rights. By supporting initiatives like this, we continue to advocate for the safety and dignity of LGBTQI+ individuals worldwide, ensuring that those forced to flee their homes receive the support and protection they need.