All Stories

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

"Rainbow Railroad didn’t just open a door for me; they walked beside me as I stepped through it."

As the world becomes increasingly hostile for queer and trans individuals, Sarah believes Rainbow Railroad’s mission is more critical than ever.

“I am filled with so much joy when I meet refugees that we have supported at events, or just hearing from them after they land, that they feel like they can breathe again, and that they feel like they will be okay now."

“There is a great sense of responsibility in being the recipient of someone’s story,” explains Derek, a Program Officer for Intake.

Where direct service programming cannot meet the need, we advocate globally for systemic change to address the root causes endangering and displacing LGBTQI+ persons around the world.

In 2024, Rainbow Railroad launched the Queer Forced Displacement Initiative (QFDI), a two-year project to establish an international multi-stakeholder network to improve access to protection and durable solutions for LGBTQI+ FDPs.

In Rainbow Railroad's pre-budget submission, we call on the government to solidify Canada’s legacy as a global LGBTQI+ rights leader.

In 2024, we deepened our commitment to organizing for crisis response by listening closely to affected communities and investing in local organizations equipped to lead rapid interventions

“The main difference between us and our clients is largely a matter of geographical luck.”

One year on, we are reflecting on the success of the Government Assisted Refugee program in Canada.

“It’s essential for Rainbow Railroad to show up in these spaces to ensure that LGBTQI+ migrant experiences are represented, and that we are actively working toward not just inclusion, but leadership opportunities in national advocacy.” - Senna Seniuk, Director, Engagement