Profiles

Longjones is a volunteer for Rainbow Railroad’s Communities of Care program. Based in Boston, he is part of a Private Sponsorship Group (PSG) with four other community members who are welcoming an LGBTQI+ newcomer through Welcome Corps. Below, he describes how his own experiences resettling in the United States have informed his commitment to supporting other LGBTQI+ newcomers. Learn more about volunteering to support a newcomer in the United States here. Why did you get involved with Welcome Corps?From my own story of having to run away from persecution and find a new home with no one I know but strangers, I can understand what it means and fit in the shoes of those newcomers who arrive in the USA/Canada.I am passionate about working with LGBTQ+ communities. Getting involved with Welcome Corps was a way for me to support newcomers and help them feel welcome and support them to navigate the systems as they settle into their new homes.How did you hear about private sponsorship?One of my comrades with whom we have worked for many years back in Uganda and who is in Canada now reached out to me. After visiting the website and learning more about it, I felt like this was not something new to me because I had already been doing this kind of work as an individual with the support of individual friends and my church. But, now as a PSG, we would be working as a team of five. I went on to reach out to a couple of folks I trusted and I know had a passion for such causes.Please tell us a little about your group and its members. How do you all know each other? Our group comprises five folks with different backgrounds from health to education and social work. What stands out is that we all believe that humans should live with dignity and that people should be free no matter what their gender identity or sexual orientation is. Have you done anything like this before? Some members of the group have done this kind of work before but this time, it's more structured. Three of our members are part of Choro Allegro Choruses based in Boston and they have been using music to advocate for human rights. One other member has been working in the health sector around HIV with LGBTQ+ communities of color. I personally started this specific kind of work to support refugees in 2015, based on my own experience and journey.Please tell us about your experience working with Rainbow Railroad. Our experience working with Rainbow Railroad so far has been amazing and interesting. The communication has been awesome, and the teamwork with the PSG has been great, answering all our concerns. The training has been tremendously helpful in welcoming our first match about two weeks ago.What makes your city or community a great place to resettle and live in?The city is diverse and a great place to live in. It has an urban-suburban mixed feel and is easy to navigate. What are you most excited about with the newcomer's arrival? What are you most nervous about?What has excited us about the newcomer’s arrival is that we have helped someone escape persecution. As we navigate communication with each other, we’ve been utilizing various language apps, including Duolingo, Google, and Apple translators. Paying attention to the small details has made our new arrival feel welcome. Knowing their birthday was the day before they arrived, we made a birthday cake and had it with us at the airport when we welcomed our match. Seeing how they reacted made our eyes fill with tears. What would you say to someone who is considering becoming a part of a PSG but is on the fence about it?I would encourage them to do so. I would share with them my experience and how wonderful it feels knowing their support for the newcomers plays a key role in ensuring the refugee feels safe, loved, and welcomed. One doesn’t have to feel pressured. Once the new arrival is here, things unfold and one realizes the tasks are manageable. It’s helpful to have clear, structured check-ins at least twice a week. They need to do a lot of research around the cultures and services, and let the new arrival be part of the planning. Check in with what they want to do, and outline what could be achievable in the short and long term. What does community — queer community — mean to you?It's the open-mindedness as to how one views gender and sexuality identities. One doesn’t have to necessarily be an LGBTQ+ identifying person to be considered Queer. It can also mean challenging traditional norms and fighting social inequality.What does Black queer resistance mean to you? How does it inform your involvement with Welcome Corps, and with Rainbow Railroad? What does Black queer excellence mean to you? Black queer excellence and resistance relate to the struggle that the LGBTQI+ community and allies have fought for — to be visible and accepted. Breaking the chains of tradition and viewing the world from a different lens. It’s about realizing the countless sacrifices among Black folks.Queer resistance — the act of refusal to be treated differently or less than others — standing up against injustices.Volunteering with a PSG is in line with Black excellence and resistance, by standing up against injustices, volunteering time to welcome a new arrival and creating a safe space and environment for them. While Rainbow Railroad is working tirelessly to ensure a safe passage for those facing persecution and injustices, they need PSGs to help expedite the process to ensure more of those at risk get out safely. We at the grassroots level play a key role in the work of Welcome Corps and Rainbow Railroad. I am grateful for being a part of this great work.If you live in the US and are interested in learning more or becoming involved in Rainbow Railroad’s Communities of Care Program, please complete the volunteer form.

Born in Sudan, Khalid relocated to Malaysia in 2022 before reaching out to Rainbow Railroad and eventually resettling in Canada in September 2023. Below, he shares his reflections on his journey seeking safety over the past two years.This story contains reference to violence and other forms of abuse towards the LGBTQI+ community. Growing up in a seemingly privileged middle-class family, I soon realized that appearances can be deceiving. Despite their education and outward prosperity, my family held deep-rooted prejudices, particularly towards the LGBTQI+ community. Living in a country where being queer is not only socially condemned but also criminalized, I witnessed the horrifying consequences of such discrimination firsthand. People were persecuted — even killed — simply for being true to themselves.One tragic incident hit close to home when my dear friend lost his life at the hands of his own father, when he discovered his son's sexual orientation. This injustice fueled my anger and helplessness, driving me to seek safety and freedom elsewhere. Little did I know that my escape would mark the beginning of an arduous journey.Bidding farewell to my tearful mother, I embarked on a path that would forever change my life. To study abroad I knew Malaysia isn't the best place, but in comparison to back home, Malaysia is better. However, my worst nightmares materialized overnight. My once supportive family turned their backs on me, leaving me homeless and utterly unprepared for the challenges ahead. Suddenly, I found myself alone, unable to even cook or wash my own clothes. It was a harsh awakening, far removed from the security I had known within my family.Sadly, my struggles did not end there. As an asylum seeker,I faced exploitation, abuse, and racism in my workplace. The restaurant industry became my new reality, where I had to swallow my pride and endure the cruelty of labor exploitation. It was a stark contrast to the work I had previously done back home with NGOs supporting refugees. Never could I have imagined that one day I would become a refugee myself.Amidst the hardships, a glimmer of hope emerged. In Malaysia, I discovered organizations like Jejaka and Justice for Sisters who stood by me and provided support to me. Their unwavering dedication inspired me to commit my life and time to helping others in similar situations.And because of Rainbow Railroad, I have found safety and refuge in Canada. Their tireless efforts have provided me with the opportunity to rebuild my life and advocate for others in similar situations. I realized the importance of solidarity within our community, as no one understands our struggles better than ourselves. Together, we must fight for our rights, for we are the most targeted and vulnerable community in the world.In Canada, I really want to engage with my Canadian community and to learn from the LGBTQI+ community. I hope to use this knowledge to help the queer community back in Sudan. I want to work towards ensuring every single individual has access to healthcare because in Sudan we are still dealing with stigma surrounding HIV, and discrimination and criminalization of queer identities. I'm committed to supporting my Sudanese queer community and anyone in need, and it's not just something I want to do -  it's a journey to make things better. I want to fix important problems and help those who need it. I want to make sure their voices are heard.Even when things get tough, I stay hopeful and focused. If I can achieve these goals in my lifetime, it's not just a win for me, but it shows how working together and caring for each other can make a big difference.I dream of a world where everyone, no matter where they come from, can do well and have their voices heard. My dream isn't just about reaching my goals; it's about inspiring others to work together for a fair and equal future.As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded that strength arises from adversity. My experiences have shaped my determination to empower and uplift the queer community. It is our collective responsibility to fight for our rights, ensuring that the world recognizes and respects our existence. Let us stand together, united in our pursuit of equality and justice. 

In addition to providing emergency travel support to individuals fleeing persecution, Rainbow Railroad operates five programs, including Partnership Development. Through this program, we work closely with human rights defenders and grassroots organizations to provide direct support to LGBTQI+ communities on the ground. One of these organizations is Mbarara Rise Foundation (MRF). MRF was founded in 2016 to address discrimination, violence and persecution faced by LGBTQI+ individuals in rural communities in western Uganda. They promote social change, equality, and acceptance, and offer a range of essential services tailored to the needs of the LGBTQI+ community in Uganda. These services include legal aid, HIV-related support and counseling, healthcare access, advocacy, safe housing and relocation, and economic empowerment skills programs.Real Raymond, MRF’s Executive Director, reflects on the ups and downs of operating the organization: “We face a combination of challenges and rewarding moments. The difficult parts primarily revolve around the persistent discrimination, persecution and violence faced by LGBTQI+ individuals in Uganda. It is heart-wrenching to witness the hardships LGBTQI+ individuals endure due to societal prejudice and discriminatory laws. Additionally, working in an environment where our mission is met with resistance and hostility can be emotionally taxing. However, we’re never deterred by these challenges. We also witness the transformation and positive impact of our work on the LGBTQI+ individuals we support. These success stories serve as a guiding light and inspire us to continue our work. The resilience and strength of the LGBTQI+ community in Uganda are a constant source of inspiration for us.” MRF continues to advocate for legislative change and empower LGBTQI+ individuals to be a catalyst for social change, contributing to a more inclusive and accepting society in Uganda.To LGBTQI+ individuals facing difficulties, Mbarara offers a message of solidarity, resilience, and hope: “You are not alone and your identity is valid. Reach out for support and find allies who will stand by your side. There is strength in our community, and together, we can create positive change. Your well-being and happiness are worth fighting for, and brighter days are ahead.”“And to those who support Rainbow Railroad, we, at MRF, extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation. Your support of Rainbow Railroad is a lifeline for LGBTQI+ individuals in Uganda and around the world. You are making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. Your commitment to our cause is a beacon of hope, and we thank you for your unwavering solidarity and generosity. Together, we are working towards a world where love, acceptance, and equality prevail.” This Giving Tuesday, November 28, all donations to Rainbow Railroad will be directed to our work in Uganda, including our support of partner organizations like MRF. Donate here. 

Trans Awareness Week November 13-19We observe Transgender Awareness Week at Rainbow Railroad to promote greater acceptance, visibility, inclusivity, and social change for the transgender community. In order to understand and address the challenges the global trans community faces, it is critical to centre the lived experiences of its members. In 2023, the number of requests for help from trans individuals Rainbow Railroad received doubled.Julia is one of the trans individuals Rainbow Railroad supported this year. Growing up in Tunisia, she faced bullying and harassment because of her identity. At only 18 years old, she was imprisoned because a piece of her ID did not match her gender expression. As a result, she spent over a year in prison without facing a fair trial.Julia is a multi-talented artist and creator. In 2018, she founded “Alwani,” which means “My colours'', in Arabic, an organization dedicated to advocating for the LGBT community in Tunisia. As a result of her activism, Julia was invited by the Arab Institute for Research and Publishing in Lebanon to help update their guide on gendered vocabulary in the Arabic language.2022 was a turning point for Julia when members of an extremist group attacked both her and her mother. Through a recommendation of a friend, she reached out to Rainbow Railroad. The decision to leave Tunisia was not easy. She would have to leave her family behind and face financial insecurity from her resettlement. However, she felt she had no choice but to leave, describing her mental state as “in constant fear and expecting harassment at every corner, or worse, the police dragging me down to the station.”Julia sought refuge in Madrid. She describes her three-day wait at the airport as a positive experience. Contrary to all her expectations, she was well taken care of, fed and given a phone to call home. The Red Cross provided her with a wheelchair because of complications she suffered throughout her travels. On June 14, 2023, Julia, at 28 years old, was granted asylum in Spain and started her new life in Madrid.A resettlement organization, Rescate, supported Julia with housing in Spain and helped her learn Spanish. When asked how she adjusted to her new life in Madrid, she remarks, “I feel at peace, safe and secure. That is what changed for me — not the change in geographic location. My mind is no longer busy looking for ways to run for safety or thinking of how to prepare for the worst scenario possible.”Her days in Madrid are occupied with participating in different activities through Rescate, learning Spanish and enjoying her hobbies of cooking and drawing.Her current motto in life is: “I learn something new every day and every day is the best day of my life”.“I tell my Tunisian LGBTQ+ folks not to despair and not to give up, and not to tire; to work toward your clear goals and realize them. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from community organizations or lawyers, and be who you are and live for what your souls yearn for, not for others. And don’t forget to dance to life’s ever-changing tunes.”“I thank everyone who supported and supports Rainbow Railroad. And I tell them that their donations helped me reach safer shores and their donations are helping many others like me from the LGBTQI+ communities all over the world.”  In 2023, Rainbow Railroad successfully relocated hundreds of individuals like Julia, while providing vital support to thousands of others through shelter, emergency financial assistance, crisis response support, and other programs. Help make our work possible by making a donation today at rainbowrailroad.org/donate.