Profiles

“Despite the immense challenges posed by South Sudan’s poor human rights record, GEPA South Sudan remains steadfast in its commitment to championing the rights of sexual minorities. We draw inspiration from trailblazers such as Senior Counsel Nicholas Opiyo, a human rights defender from Chapter Four Uganda, Dr. Frank Mugisha of SMUG, and Dr. Stella Nyanzi.”          -Paul ONEK Isidoro, Program Coordinator, GEPA South Sudan We are honouring and celebrating Black History Month by featuring a Black-led partner organization of Rainbow Railroad every week of February and exploring how queer Black liberation informs their work. This week, we are featuring GEPA, a rights-based organization in South Sudan.  A Challenging Landscape for LGBTQI+ Rights in South SudanIn South Sudan, consensual same-sex sexual acts continue to be criminalised in 2025, and LGBTQI+ refugees in the camps in South Sudan face unique vulnerability, often enduring harassment, discrimination, and violence. Furthermore, the influx of LGBTQI+ refugees fleeing the war in Sudan further strains the already overcrowded camps. Queer and trans refugees confront intensified dangers in these environments, including abuse from fellow refugees and limited access to essential services. South Sudan's conservative social norms exacerbate these issues, leaving LGBTQI+ refugees without adequate protection. The current legal landscape in South Sudan presents significant challenges, with laws such as the Penal Code Act, 2008 and the Revised National HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan either failing to recognize or actively discriminating against LGBTQI+ populations.Despite the optimism brought about by South Sudan’s independence in 2011, the LGBTQI+ community continues to face significant challenges. “While the country’s separation from Sudan marked a liberation for many, it did not extend to sexual minorities,” explains Paul. Driving Change Through Advocacy and ServiceGEPA South Sudan, established in 2015, is a rights-based national organization driven by a commitment to sustainable change. It aims to mobilize, engage, and empower women, sexual minorities, sex workers, and other marginalized populations by creating networks that foster opportunities for sustainable livelihoods, health and positive impact within their communities.GEPA South Sudan provides a range of services to achieve these aims. They offer pro-bono legal services to asylum seekers, engage in strategic litigation on matters of public interest, ensure legal protection for vulnerable populations and provide psychosocial support services to survivors of conversion therapy and other forms of sexual and gender-based violence. The organization is also in the process of establishing access to temporary safe shelters for those in need. Additionally, they offer livelihood skills training and support in the form of seed and start-up capital.Amplifying LGBTQI+ VoicesThe advocacy efforts of GEPA South Sudan center on amplifying the voices of marginalized populations through evidence-based research and digital media, to inform new laws and amend existing policies. The organization seeks to address the layered oppressions experienced by LGBTQI+ individuals and views the struggle for Black liberation as inherently intertwined with queer liberation.From 2018 to 2022, the organization led a campaign addressing the sexual and economic exploitation of women employed in the natural resources sector in the Eastern Equatoria state in South Sudan. GEPA also advocated for the full implementation of the 35% women’s representation quota in the Revitalized Transitional Government of National Unity, as outlined in the current peace accord. This effort involved collaboration with women leaders from various political factions. Currently, they are focused on organizing a consultative forum for technical experts and policymakers on the East African Community Sexual and Reproductive Health Bill of 2021. Additionally, GEPA is leading an advocacy campaign to repeal the HIV criminalization and anti-homosexuality provisions in the Penal Code Act of 2008.The organization also works to strengthen alliances among actors in the gender-based violence space and other rights-based programming within the sexual minority community.The Power of Partnership: Collaborating with Rainbow RailroadSince February 2022, GEPA has implemented two Rainbow Railroad-funded projects: providing pro-bono legal services for incarcerated sexual minorities and exploring the provision of safe shelter for survivors of conversion therapy.This partnership has resulted in freedom from incarceration for 22 LGBTQI+ individuals through pro bono legal services to secure police bond and court bails, as well as support for securing legal status for 14 LGBTQI+ migrants in South Sudan.The partnership with Rainbow Railroad also provided access to comprehensive sexuality education to over 500 LGBTQI+ persons via the website www.healthnow-ssd.org.The day-to-day work of GEPA comes with both challenges and rewards. There is a constant threat of violent crackdowns and security breaches, exacerbated by increasing surveillance and rising LGBTQI+ hostility in the region. “Despite these risks, the work is deeply fulfilling. The ability to restore hope and make a tangible difference—whether through a legal advisory session, pro-bono services, or simply the smile on someone's face after counseling—provides a profound sense of purpose and commitment to service,” remarks Paul ONEK Isidoro, Program Coordinator.From Inspiration to Queering the System“We draw inspiration from trailblazers such as Senior Counsel Nicholas Opiyo, a human rights defender from Chapter Four Uganda, Dr. Frank Mugisha of SMUG, and Dr. Stella Nyanzi. These figures serve as the north star and source of inspiration for advocacy efforts supporting LGBTQI+ individuals experiencing forced displacement.”For GEPA South Sudan, the queer community is more than a collective of individuals united by a common culture, it is a bond of solidarity that transcends borders, bringing people together not just to celebrate pride and diversity, but to amplify each other's voices in the struggle for rights and recognition. The organization is dedicated to “queering” the system by integrating transformative alternatives in designing its sustainability planning and by using the concept of queer futurity. In their immediate intervention, GEPA South Sudan internally uses queer data (gender marker and sexuality) to ensure inclusivity in decision-making, programming and onward data for action.The Fight for Queer Black LiberationIn expressing gratitude to supporters of Rainbow Railroad, Paul emphasizes the importance of their contributions:“We thank you for the enormous support you have given to Rainbow Railroad over time and to equally let you know that every ounce of support being given to Rainbow Railroad is by extension reaching the most at-risk population across the globe where it’s most urgently needed through agencies like us-GEPA South Sudan.”GEPA envisions a future where human rights are universally upheld, a dream inspired by the resilience of those who have historically faced oppression. Their efforts are bolstered by the critical reports of the UN Human Rights Commission and Amnesty International, which underscore the urgent need to address systemic violations in South Sudan and reaffirm the necessity of dismantling all forms of injustice.“Despite the immense challenges posed by South Sudan’s poor human rights record, GEPA South Sudan remains steadfast in its commitment to championing the rights of sexual minorities.” This unwavering dedication is deeply intertwined with the broader struggle for Black liberation—a fight for equality, dignity, and justice that transcends borders. In safeguarding both program personnel and direct beneficiaries, GEPA SOUTH SUDAN refrains from sharing personal photos, prioritizing the protection of those involved in its critical work.

"What keeps me motivated is the unwavering belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their race, ability, sexuality, or gender identity. Understanding that I am part of a larger movement of activists, allies, and supporters strengthens my resolve in the face of daunting challenges within global queer and Black liberation”-Nzovu Job Ruzage, Executive Director of Human Rights First Rwanda Association (HRFRA)We are honouring and celebrating Black History Month by featuring a Black-led partner organization of Rainbow Railroad every week of February and exploring how queer Black liberation informs their work. This week, we are featuring Human Rights First Rwanda Association (HRFRA).Queer Black Liberation & Defending the Rights of Sexual Minorities “The framework and principles of queer Black liberation has informed and reinforced the importance of an intersectional approach in our advocacy efforts, enabling us to address the multifaceted nature of oppression effectively,” reflects Job, Executive Director of Human Rights First Rwanda Association, “and, by integrating queer Black liberation into our initiatives, we have been instrumental in the campaign to decriminalize sexual minorities, specifically targeting discriminatory laws such as the proposed Article 217 of the Rwandan Penal Code in 2009.”Since 2008, HRFRA has led efforts to promote and defend the rights of sexual minorities. One of its major achievements has been the successful advocacy for the removal of Article 217, which sought to criminalize LGBTQI+ activities and advocacy in Rwanda. This significant change has enabled sexual minorities in Rwanda to live without fear of punitive measures, though  discrimination and violence persist.HRFRA focuses on legal empowerment, pro-bono legal aid, advocacy-based research, education, and community empowerment, to fill gaps in access to justice, provide a voice for underrepresented communities, and promote human rights. As part of their advocacy efforts, HRFRA has publicly opposed Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023 and condemned the remarks made by Burundi's head of state advocating for the public stoning of LGBTQI+ individuals. HRFRA has been vocal in their activism, for example, by making visible and observing the 10th anniversary of Resolution 275 of the African Commission, which aims to protect the LGBTQ+ community in Africa from violence perpetrated by both state and non-state actors. Improving Support through PartnershipHRFRA first connected with Rainbow Railroad through networks of organizations dedicated to LGBTQI+ rights and social justice. The partnership between Rainbow Railroad and HRFRA was established in 2023, and focuses on supporting the LGBTQI+ refugee community in Rwanda in areas such as access to justice and mental health support. Key areas of collaboration include capacity-building, legal aid, psychosocial support, and expanding HRFRA's reach to include LGBTQI+ refugees coming from neighboring countries like Burundi, Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.The partnership with Rainbow Railroad has brought significant benefits to HRFRA and the communities it serves such as increased resources, enhanced advocacy efforts, and improved support for the LGBTQI+ community. With this partnership, HRFRA was able to provide support on more than 600 cases involving LGBTQI+ persons in need of  legal aid and psychosocial support. This includes  referrals to other organizations and institutions like law enforcement agencies. Over 80 cases of LGBTQI+ refugees from Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya have been assisted with asylum procedures and illegal detentions.This collaboration has strengthened HRFRA's ability to raise awareness on a larger scale and to advocate for the rights of LGBTQI+ refugees and other vulnerable groups. Making a Tangible Difference for LGBTQI+ RefugeesHRFRA faces several challenges in its day-to-day work, including resistance from those opposed to LGBTQI+ rights, resource constraints, and the emotional toll of working with individuals who have experienced trauma and persecution. Despite these difficulties, the work is deeply rewarding. Making a tangible difference in people's lives, empowering communities, building partnerships, and experiencing personal growth are all fulfilling aspects of the work. Job describes his dedication to continuing this work: “What keeps me motivated is the unwavering belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their race, ability, sexuality, or gender identity. Understanding that I am part of a larger movement of activists, allies, and supporters strengthens my resolve in the face of daunting challenges within global queer and Black liberation”HRFRA is committed to advocating for the rights of vulnerable, marginalized, and disadvantaged groups, with the goal of achieving a society free from discrimination and violence where everyone has equal access to justice and community support. To LGBTQI+ individuals facing difficulties, Job offers a message of solidarity and hope: "You are not alone, and your identity is valid and beautiful. Seek out allies, connect with those who understand your journey, and know that you are loved and valued."

Recurring donors are critical to our foundation as an organization, helping us remain flexible and respond to emerging crises, no matter when or where they arise. This year, we are facing a rapidly changing landscape for the rights of LGBTQI+ refugees and asylum seekers and, with the support of our recurring donors, we are able to plan to meet this moment head-on. This month, we spoke to one of our recurring donors, Roger Larios-Gallant, about what motivates him to continue supporting our work. To become a recurring donor, and help to strengthen the foundation of our organization, click here.Rainbow Railroad: What inspired you to start giving to Rainbow Railroad, and why did you choose to become a monthly or recurring donor?Roger: For a long while I had been feeling a need to give back. I knew there was need out there but with so many organizations and charities I felt overwhelmed. Watching Canada’s Drag Race I was introduced to Rainbow Railroad and it struck a chord in me. I felt such an immediate connection that I instantly began plans to give on a monthly basis. Rainbow Railroad: Why is the mission of Rainbow Railroad personally meaningful to you?Roger: The reason I felt such a strong connection to Rainbow Railroad is because I myself am gay and I was not born in Canada. I was born in Nicaragua where being gay is very much considered a crime and people die because of it every day. My parents had the foresight to immigrate my family to Canada when I was 12 years old. It is not lost on me the amazing blessing it is to live in Canada as a gay man. The freedom that I feel here, every time I look into my husband’s eyes, when I hold his hand in public, I know I experience freedoms and rights that others in other parts of the world simply don’t. It is a privilege to be given the chance to give someone else the same opportunities. Every time I give I think ‘it could easily be me’. Rainbow Railroad: What impact do you hope your donations will have on the lives of the people Rainbow Railroad supports?Roger: I give in the hopes that my small contribution may reach someone out there in need. Rainbow Railroad: If you could share a message with someone who is considering becoming a monthly or recurring donor, what would you tell them?Roger: As LGBTQI+ people continue to be persecuted simply for loving who they love, giving is a way to allow them a way out. Rainbow Railroad: Can you share a moment when you felt particularly proud to support Rainbow Railroad?Roger: Speaking with the team at Rainbow Railroad, I was giving a bigger picture of how far my small contribution extended. And I felt directly connected to lives that were transformed, people who were moved from dangerous situations solely because of donating.Rainbow Railroad relies on recurring donors like Roger to get more to safety. Become a recurring donor to support our mission today. 

Emmanuel's journey, marked by courage and resilience, has been a powerful testament to the possibilities of hope and freedom.

After years of facing discrimination and limited opportunities, Herberth arrived in Chicago with support from his private sponsorship group and Rainbow Railroad. At 28 years old, he embarked on a journey of transformation — one filled with challenges, growth, and hope for the future.

Julieth’s journey has been marked by courage and historic achievements. In 2024, she became the first transgender woman to graduate from the University of El Salvador with a degree in Business Administration under her legal name.

After a long and difficult journey, Cabrel arrived in the United States and experienced a moment he’ll never forget. “When I landed in San Francisco, my sponsor group was waiting for me with a sign that said, ‘Welcome Cabrel,’ and a rainbow flag. I will never forget that day — I was so happy to see them.”

As part of Rainbow Railroad’s efforts to better respond to LGBTQI+ refugees’ resettlement needs, this year we launched a Queer Refugee Internship Program for refugees who have benefitted from our work and have an interest in contributing their lived expertise to the global forced displacement response. Our program provides a unique opportunity for refugees to get vital work experience, learn new skills, and connect with professionals while elevating the voices of queer refugees. We’re highlighting the incredible stories of three interns who joined us for our inaugural Queer Refugee Internship Program. In this post, Samuel Wairiuko shares his experiences as part of the Engagement Team. To support the ongoing work of Rainbow Railroad, click here. As a human rights advocate and immigrant rights activist, I never thought I'd have the opportunity to intern with an organization like Rainbow Railroad. But life has a way of surprising us, and I'm grateful for the experience.My journey to the USA was not easy. I faced numerous challenges, but Rainbow Railroad was there to support me every step of the way. They provided financial assistance, emotional support, and encouragement when I needed it most.When I learned about the internship program, I was ecstatic. I knew this was my chance to make a difference and give back to the community while pursuing my economics degree in college. The part-time, 12-week internship was a perfect fit for me. I was tasked with recruiting individuals supported by Rainbow Railroad based in the USA, Canada, Germany, and France who were interested in joining the volunteer program to support newly arrived immigrants. Through this experience, I gained invaluable communication, technical writing, and project management skills. Despite the challenges of working across different time zones, I learned to adapt and overcome obstacles with proper planning and communication.The internship was a transformative experience that shaped me in many ways. I grew both personally and professionally, and I'm now even more determined to continue advocating for human rights and marginalized communities. My dream is to attend law school after completing my economics degree and become a lawyer who makes a difference.I'm grateful for the opportunity to have worked with Rainbow Railroad and hope to continue contributing to their mission in the future. The experience has opened my eyes to the impact one organization can have on people's lives, and I'm eager to make a difference.The Time is Always Now to support opportunities for LGBTQI+ refugees. To donate to Rainbow Railroad in support of programs like this, click here. 

“I can't breathe if I don’t help and stay connected to my community. We are one body and different members and communities represent different body parts. I expect if there is pain in one part, the whole body would feel that pain.” - Jannat Ali, trans rights activist, Executive Director of Track-T Jannat Ali, a dedicated advocate for trans rights in Pakistan, serves as the driving force behind Track-T, a community-led organization headquartered in Lahore. Track-T focuses on artivism (art + activism), trans rights awareness, and advocacy related to sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC). Since its establishment in 2017, Track-T has been at the forefront of challenging stereotypes and combating the stigma and discrimination faced by the transgender community in Pakistan.Track-T's notable achievements include founding two chapters of Trans Pride in Pakistan, becoming a member of InterPride, and actively participating in the Steering Committee that presented the Trans Rights Bill, which was enacted into law in 2018. The organization is also associated with various local and international platforms, such as the Women Peace Council Punjab, Election Commission Pakistan, and the Dignity Network Canada Advisory Board.Providing Wraparound Support for the Trans Community in PakistanThe services provided by Track-T are comprehensive and multifaceted. They empower low-income transgender individuals through financial, and institutional support. They also collaborate with other organizations to improve the well-being of transgender persons, and advocate for social justice. Additionally, Track-T works to build the capacity of transgender individuals to meet current and future challenges, with the vision of strengthening and sustaining the trans activism and Pride Movement in Pakistan.Track-T and Rainbow Railroad have shared panels at various human rights conferences. In 2022, both organizations decided to maintain regular contact and share updates.. Track-T's partnership with Rainbow Railroad, spanning from January 2024 to May 2024, has helped to sustain Track-T’s work during challenging times. Through this collaboration, Track-T provided drop-in services focusing on safety and security, distributed basic needs like food packages, offered mental health services, and conducted press conferences and protests. A Challenging Landscape for Activism The advocacy work carried out by Jannat Ali and Track-T is fraught with many challenges. This is due to limited resources and increasing transphobia and gender-based violence in Pakistan. The Federal Shariat Court's 2022 ruling against the Transgender Persons Act, 2018, impacted organizations like Track-T. This legislative change has left transgender individuals vulnerable to increased violence, abuse, and discrimination. Since 2015, 75 transgender people have been murdered, and 1,500 have been sexually assaulted in Pakistan. In 2018 alone, there were over 500 incidents of violence against transgender individuals in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab.The hostile environment has created significant barriers to employment, and contributed to an  escalation in the cost of living for trans people in Pakistan.. For Jannat Ali personally, as the first transgender lecturer at the University of Management and Technology, she faced significant backlash. Despite positive feedback for her teaching, the anti-trans movement endangered her life and led to the non-renewal of her job contract.. The adversity extended beyond professional setbacks. Jannat’s social media platforms, critical for her advocacy work, were targeted. Her YouTube channel "Journey with Jannat" was hacked, and her Instagram account faced multiple hacking attempts, aimed at silencing her voice and pressuring her to cease her activism. After persistent efforts, Jannat regained control of her YouTube account.Threatening calls demanded the closure of Track-T's office, further endangering their work and safety. Eventually, threats to her life forced her to flee Pakistan and relocate to Canada with the support of Rainbow Railroad. Despite these challenges, Jannat remains steadfast in her commitment to her community. She is working tirelessly to create safe spaces and provide support to those in need.Looking Ahead in the Ongoing Fight for Trans Equality in PakistanLooking ahead, Jannat's hopes and dreams for Track-T and the communities they serve are focused on protecting the lives of LGBTQI+ individuals facing persecution in Pakistan. She emphasizes the importance of never losing hope, “and continuing to fight for our rights and dignity.”In her message to the Pakistani government, Jannat calls for action against homophobia and transphobia. She states, "The trans community has been exploited for superficial gestures like photo ops. It's imperative for the government to issue a strong statement and take decisive measures against homophobia and transphobia." To those who support Rainbow Railroad, Jannat expresses deep gratitude. She highlights how their support has been crucial in protecting lives and enabling ongoing advocacy and community support.For Jannat, the queer community is akin to oxygen—essential and life-sustaining. She says, “I can't breathe if I don’t help and stay connected to my community”. Queering the system  involves recognizing the interconnectedness of the community and feeling the collective pain and struggle.“We are one body and different members and communities represent different body parts. I expect if there is pain in one part, the whole body would feel that pain.”Rainbow Railroad provides direct capacity building and livelihood support to human rights defenders, organizations and collectives in countries where people are displaced. This Trans Awareness Week, we’re asking our community to step up in support of trans people around the world. Help us provide support to more trans refugees and asylum seekers here.

As part of Rainbow Railroad’s efforts to better respond to LGBTQI+ refugees’ resettlement needs, this year we launched a Queer Refugee Internship Program for refugees who have benefitted from our work and have an interest in contributing their lived expertise to the global forced displacement response. Our program provides a unique opportunity for refugees to get vital work experience, learn new skills, and connect with professionals while elevating the voices of queer refugees. We’re highlighting the incredible stories of three interns who joined us for our inaugural Queer Refugee Internship Program. In this post, Staries shares their experiences as part of the Engagement Team.  I am proud to announce my new name: Staries Azura. Born into a conservative family in Indonesia, I faced persecution and violence from a very young age. Years of enduring abuse and hiding my queer identity from the world made life feel like hell. I escaped from a conservative boarding school, only to be sent to another, where I suffered religious-based abuse. Eventually, my own family moved me to a different province. Despite all of this, I managed to finish high school, where I met incredible people who supported me in beginning my activism journey.My first step into activism was organizing an international pride event, which was a success. From there, my advocacy expanded to cover not only queer issues but also youth, elderly, interfaith, and feminist causes. I co-led feminist and queer movements and took part in grassroots queer advocacy.After enduring years of abuse, death threats, and trauma, I was lucky enough to be introduced to Rainbow Railroad by a beautiful soul I met at a world conference. She encouraged me to seek help, but I initially resisted, telling her, "No, I would feel like a burden." She persisted, though, and five months later, I reached a breaking point. I was on the verge of suicide when I finally asked Rainbow Railroad for help. I was assigned a case manager, and together we worked on getting me out of Indonesia. In February 2023, I arrived in New York City, and my life began to change for the better. For the first time, I experienced the freedom to be my true self—a queer person—thanks to Rainbow Railroad.Since arriving in New York, I have remained in close contact with Rainbow Railroad. I’ve had the opportunity to speak at their events and even participate in a Pride campaign with Lululemon in partnership with Rainbow Railroad. Our shared values in advocacy work have made staying connected with them truly fulfilling. It was through these connections that I learned about the Queer Refugee Internship program, a platform that allows refugees and asylees to learn and work alongside Rainbow Railroad. I am fortunate to be one of the interns accepted into this program.The internship program has not only enhanced my advocacy skills but has also contributed to my personal growth in both technical and soft skills. The Engagement team I worked with was incredibly supportive, making the experience even more rewarding. Over the 12 weeks of this memorable internship, I gained valuable knowledge that I will carry forward into the next phase of my career. This internship reaffirmed the career path I plan to pursue, and I am excited about what the future holds. I’m ready to chase my dreams. 

“[Queering the system] is a call to question and overthrow established systems with the intention to create more inclusive and equitable spaces for all  ”- Dennis Castillo Fuentes, Executive Director, IRCA CASABIERTA Dennis Castillo Fuentes was the first person in Costa Rica to be granted refugee status due to his vulnerability as a gay individual, which inspired him to found IRCA CASABIERTA in 2013. Being supported by other human rights defenders, his dream of creating the first LGBTQI+ organization specialized for migrants and refugees in Costa Rica became a reality. Due to an epidemic of homicides and other forms of violence against LGBTQI+ populations in Central America, the phenomenon of LGBTQI+ migration has become more visible.After accumulating significant knowledge regarding LGBTQI+ forced migration through conducting investigations, research and reports on the lived realities and life stories of these populations in their countries of origin, the Institute on LGBTQI+ Migration and Refugees for Central America (IRCA) CASABIERTA, today, is a national and international reference point. Its mission is to develop strategies and actions to protect the rights of LGBTQI+ migrants and refugees and to respond to  the needs and vulnerabilities created by the migration process. IRCA CASABIERTA has significantly impacted the situation for LGBTQI+ migrants and refugees in Central America, especially in Costa Rica. Their services are based on close assessment and case management, provision of legal advice and psychosocial support and training, contextual orientation and integration to Costa Rican culture and providing food subsidies and assistance in accessing essential services.Navigating Complex Obstacles to Advance the Rights of LGBTQI+ Refugees The organization learned about Rainbow Railroad from social networks. Rainbow Railroad supported IRCA CASABIERTA in 2021 and 2023; this support enabled them to meet the basic needs of 1,755 LGBTQI+ refugees and migrants who arrived in Costa Rica.Dennis notes the significant challenges faced by the organization  because of the limited resources and shelters for the LGBTQI+ population. Additionally, navigating complex immigration laws requires extensive legal support. Despite these obstacles, it is rewarding to help transform the lives of LGBTQI+ refugees and migrants. Dennis emphasizes that through promoting social integration, personal and professional development, and support networks, their work strengthens the LGBTQI+ community, making their efforts both crucial and fulfilling.Costa Rica's progressive laws on LGBTQI+ rights, including the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2020 and anti-discrimination protections, have fostered a betterenvironment for LGBTQI+ refugees and migrants. However, cultural acceptance, while growing, is not widespread, and the organization still confronts discrimination and violence. IRCA CASABIERTA addresses these issues by providing psychosocial and legal support and assisting LGBTQI+ migrants and refugees in navigating bureaucratic challenges to access public services.Empowering the LGBTQI+ Community in Costa Rica On addressing the Government of Costa Rica, Dennis emphasizes “ It is essential that you ensure the protection of human rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, by strengthening anti-discrimination laws and ensuring access to essential services for LGBTQI+ migrants and refugees.Furthermore, promoting training on LGBTQI+ issues for public officials and supporting organizations like IRCA CASABIERTA will further enhance their safety and integration." He hopes to eventually realize the full integration and empowerment of LGBTQI+ forcibly displaced individuals within Costa Rican society. IRCA CASABIERTA aspires to increase its political impact, presence and visibility, setting a model for inclusive and fair policies in the region.To LGBTQI+ individuals who are facing difficulties, he expresses: “You are not alone on this path. Many people and organizations, like IRCA CASABIERTA, are dedicated to supporting you and helping you overcome challenges—seek out these support networks. Your identity, sexual orientation, and your gender identity are valuable and beautiful parts of who you are. Don't let anyone make you feel less for being who you are. Diversity is a strength, and your existence contributes to making the world a richer and more colorful place.” He also thanks supporters of Rainbow Railroad: “Your help transforms lives, providing refuge to those at risk of incarceration, violence, or death. Each donation and act of support significantly impacts those facing persecution and violence. By continuing your support, you ensure our operations' sustainability and help expand our reach globally.”For Dennis, to queer the system is “to challenge and transform traditional structures and norms that perpetuate discrimination and exclusion of LGBTQI+ people. It is a call to question and overthrow established systems with the intention to create more inclusive and equitable spaces for all.”

To better understand and respond to LGBTQI+ refugees’ resettlement needs, this year we launched a Queer Refugee Internship Program (QRI) for refugees who have benefitted from our work and 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 incredible stories of three interns who joined us for our inaugural Queer Refugee Internship Program. In this post, D’John Campbell shares his experiences supporting event planning at Rainbow Railroad. My name is D’John Campbell, and I am a Black gay man, born and raised in Jamaica, a country that is culturally and legally oppressive toward LGBTQI+ individuals. Throughout my life, I have faced violence and persecution simply because of my identity. The trauma, hatred, and violence I endured pushed me to the brink of despair, to the point where I almost ended my life. I was exhausted from constantly running and fighting just to survive.At my lowest point, a friend encouraged me to seek help from Rainbow Railroad, a charity that provides support to LGBTQI+ people living in unsafe countries. I submitted a request for help, and it was answered. Rainbow Railroad connected me with a case manager who offered both mental and emotional support, and helped me understand my options. Within four months, with their assistance, I relocated to Canada. They provided financial support for travel expenses including transportation and airfare.Upon arriving in Canada, Rainbow Railroad connected me with several support networks and community organizations that provided essential care. Adjusting to life in Canada was incredibly difficult—being cut off from both the things that hurt me and the familiar experiences of my culture.The isolation, change in weather, and new culture were significant challenges, especially as a newcomer and a queer refugee. Navigating the city and being separated from my partner in Jamaica added to the difficulty.I began volunteering with various not-for-profit organizations in Toronto, hoping to give back and complete the circle of support that had been offered to me. I understand the value of being treated with love and respect, regardless of who you are or who you love—something I first experienced when I reached out to Rainbow Railroad. Living in a city like Toronto is expensive, and finding a job is vital, but the job market is extremely competitive. As refugees, and especially as queer people of colour, the first question we often face during interviews is, “What is your Canadian work experience?” This is a significant barrier to employment.Rainbow Railroad regularly updates me on training sessions, workshops, and other engagement activities. Through these updates, I learned about the Queer Refugee Internship program; Rainbow Railroad invited queer refugees to apply for a position that would offer on-the-job training, build personal capacities, and improve employability while also providing insight into how the organization operates. I was thrilled when I heard about the program and quickly submitted my application. A few days later, I was invited for an interview and was selected for the Events Intern position. With my background in event management and project management, I was excited to join the team.I started the program a month before Rainbow Railroad’s biggest event of the year, the Freedom Party, which kicks off Pride Month. It is the organization’s most significant event, requiring all hands on deck. My duties included providing support to my immediate supervisor in various ways, monitoring administrative tasks, handling follow-ups, conducting site visits, and managing the venue alongside my supervisor.This experience has provided me with valuable industry knowledge on event management and allowed me to build relationships with people from diverse backgrounds. Seeing diversity embraced and supported here has given me hope for the future. It has always been my dream to complete my bachelor’s degree and become a Certified Public Accountant. In Jamaica, however, where I couldn't stay in one place too long due to my sexual identity, that dream seemed impossible. Now, I’ve been accepted into college to start in September, and for the first time, I can look forward to the future—something that was made possible through Rainbow Railroad.I am forever grateful for this second chance at life and my new beginning. I encourage other queer refugees to get involved in the QRI program. It is an opportunity that will help you navigate diverse teams and integrate into the Canadian work environment. I guarantee it will expand your network, lead to positive connections, and foster a sense of community and belonging.