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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.

Rainbow Railroad's Donor Impact Report, Fall 2024

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!

We are deeply concerned by Canada’s recent reduction in refugee resettlement slots in the 2025-27 Immigration Levels Plan. 

A night of dance and celebration, all in support of Rainbow Railroad’s vital work

LGBTQI+ rights and refugee rights are under threat in the coming election, but this election is also an opportunity to renew our commitment to mobilizing in defence of our community

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. 

 Recently, Rainbow Railroad convened and moderated a timely dialogue on “International Peace and Security and LGBTQI+ Crisis Response” in a side event for the United Nations Summit of the Future. Read a complete report back on this panel here.We gathered with the co-sponsorship of Outright International, the Equal Rights Coalition, and the Governments of Malta, Colombia, and Canada, and through close collaboration with UNHCR’s Division of International Protection and its New York Office, as well as the UN Independent Expert on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity.Dr. Nishin Nathwani, Head of Strategy at Rainbow Railroad, moderated the discussion which featured expert interventions from:Ambassador Bob Rae, Permanent Representative of Canada to the UN, and President of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)Graeme Reid, UN Independent Expert on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, Permanent Representative of Malta to the United NationsAmbassador Juan José Quintana, Permanent Representative of Colombia to the United Nations  Richard Wilson, Executive Director of Lighthouse Equality Advocacy ProjectAndré Du Plessis, United Nations Program Director at Outright InternationalMr. Sivanka Dhanapala, Director of UNHCR Office in New YorkPrioritizing Multilateral Partnership and Queer PerspectivesThe discussion explored how multilateral partnership can contribute to international peace and security. Participants examined successful partnerships with states, international organizations, and civil society, and identified areas where countries can champion the fight against LGBTQI+ persecution. Speakers shared how queer perspectives can be integrated into the Pact of the Future and in the Declaration on Future Generations, and where increased multilateralism can enhance international peace and security for at-risk LGBTQI+ people.   Richard Wilson, an activist supported by Rainbow Railroad in resettling, spoke about their own lived experience on the panel, as well as their advocacy for LGBTQI+ asylum seekers. Reflecting on the conversation, they shared the following:“Having the opportunity to share my story and listen to the proposed policies aimed at supporting displaced individuals, especially those in the LGBTQI+ community, gave me hope. I felt that the voices of people like me were not just being heard but also integrated into solutions that could make a tangible difference. Seeing global leaders take our concerns seriously and commit to taking action was incredibly powerful.”This was Rainbow Railroad’s first event of this kind, after having recently been granted special consultative status by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Securing ECOSOC status is a challenging process, as applicants must be approved by a committee that includes members from countries like Russia, Pakistan, and China, nations that often subject LGBTQI+ groups to additional scrutiny. Consultative status significantly increases Rainbow Railroad’s access to the UN, including through bodies such as the Human Rights Council, where we are better positioned to advocate for LGBTQI+ forced displacement and elevate the work of partner LGBTQI+ civil society organizations and activists doing this work on the ground globally. Bringing grassroots partners and refugees into high level meetings, provides a platform for those who lack the resources to attain this status themselves. Forming the backdrop of this conversation is the global anti-gender movement, which has mobilized a coalition of populist groups and funders to target a wide range of programming including sexuality education, discussion on sexual and reproductive rights, and LGBTQI+ rights. Rainbow Railroad has received more than 50,000 requests for help since our founding, and we understand the need for a global coordinated response.The rising tide of legislative and social changes that newly target LGBTQI+ communities not only jeopardize the safety of individuals and communities and their access to rights but also have broader implications for global peace and security. Experts acknowledged we need to collectively re-envision the landscape of how the international community adapts and responds to threats to human rights, underscoring how international mechanisms have been successfully utilized and could be further leveraged to enhance support to at-risk LGBTQI+ communities in crisis-affected contexts.  Advancing LGBTQI+ Rights in International SpacesActivist Richard Wilson described the importance of conversations like this:“This event opened my eyes to the global nature of the LGBTQI+ crisis response. It showed me that while the struggles of LGBTQI+ immigrants and asylum seekers are unique, they are not isolated. The panel gave me a deeper understanding of the complex intersection between displacement, identity, and security. It also highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing these crises and reassured me that there are ongoing efforts to improve the systems in place to protect and support people like me.”Collective action and partnerships in multilateral spaces give us hope as we continue to advocate for the voices of LGBTQI+ refugees and asylum seekers at the international level. Opportunities for these conversations are critical in our pursuit of creative solutions for international crisis response.   Read a complete report back on“International Peace and Security and LGBTQI+ Crisis Response” here.  All photos in this blog post are credited to Andrew Kelly. 

“[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.”

“When I Am Free”, a benefit concert in support of Rainbow Railroad is back for the 5th time this fall! We're excited to invite members of our community in Chicago and surrounding area to attend.This annual event will be held at the historic Jazz Showcase on the evening of Wednesday, October 23, featuring a headline performance by one of Chicago’s most remarkable talents, the inimitable jazz artist Dee Alexander. The "When I Am Free" benefit concert will kick off the annual “When I Am Free” fundraising campaign in the Chicago area. The campaign will raise fund to help LGBTQI+ people fleeing anti-LGBTQI+ persecution find safe pathways to freedom. The evening will also feature remarks from Rainbow Railroad’s leadership and community. The concert is also an opportunity to show our appreciation for our community in Chicago. We hope you will join us on October 23 for an evening of exceptional artistry for an exceptional cause.You can learn more about the event, or purchase tickets, here. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for purchase.Join us on October 23 for an evening of exceptional artistry for an exceptional cause!Rainbow Railroad is grateful for the support of the "When I Am Free" Host Committee: Tracy Baim, Precious Brady-Davis, Lori Cannon, Armand Cerbone and Michael Zartman, Terry Cosgrove and Robert Ruggero, Jim Cundiff and Dale Woods, Bruce Koff and Mitchell Channon, Dave Helverson, Robert Kohl and Clark Pellett, Art Johnston and Pepe Peña, Mary Morten, Tracy Raasch and Aybars Emsun

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.

“We urge European governments to abolish their colonial and imperial legacies that have contributed to the erasure of queer culture from our history and have reinforced discriminatory laws against LGBTQI+ individuals in our countries. We also call for a thorough review of immigration and refugee reception policies to address the pervasive issues of systemic racism and xenophobia within EU institutions.” - Nada Ahmed, President of ANKH & Taha Metwally, Co-founder of ANKHANKH Organization (Arab Network for Knowledge about Human Rights) was founded in 2018 in Paris by Egyptian human rights defenders who sought refuge in France due to the political risks in their home country. ANKH is a community association driven by activists and members of the LGBTQI+ community within the SWANA (Southwest Asia and North Africa) diaspora. Its mission is to advocate for the rights of underrepresented communities, particularly supporting LGBTQI+ individuals from that region. Focusing on Advocacy in Support of LGBTQI+ Refugees ANKH assists individuals and activists facing risks as a result of their LGBTQI+ identities. The organization also supports immigrants, asylum seekers, refugees, and undocumented persons navigating administrative, political, and social challenges in France.  Challenges include access to mental health , housing insecurity, experiences of racism, and the difficulty in finding a supportive peer community.The team also provides services to individuals living with HIV, commercial sex workers, and persons with addiction.ANKH faces two primary challenges as a community-based organization focused on LGBTQI+ and immigration rights. The first is the navigation of  constant amendments to immigration laws in the context of a xenophobic and anti-immigrant environment. ANKH also faces financial constraints in their efforts to employ full-time staff for urgent case management and international advocacy efforts.Vital Collaborations with International Human Rights DefendersANKH’s partnership with Rainbow Railroad began in 2019 when Rainbow Railroad provided urgent assistance to an individual living with HIV who faced severe challenges in Egypt where he was denied access to essential treatment. This led to a significant deterioration in his physical and mental health. Rainbow Railroad and ANKH provided immediate support, and eventually he received asylum in France.  This collaboration expanded to include advocacy efforts in France, as well as joint involvement in over 29 urgent cases of individuals at risk in their home country or in Europe. This partnership has enhanced ANKH’s understanding of the challenges encountered by LGBTQI+ individuals seeking safety or asylum.ANKH has developed several other meaningful collaborations over the years. They have partnered closely with human rights advocates from the SWANA region and supporting small-scale collectives and organizations. ANKH has provided data, comprehensive reports, and spearheaded campaigns against conversion therapy and hate speech. Improving Social Conditions for LGBTQI+ Communities Worldwide ANKH aspires to evolve into an international entity capable of  improving social and political conditions  for LGBTQI+ communities. Nada Ahmed, President of ANKH,  encourages LGBTQI+ communities worldwide to embrace the values of community:“Our journeys are not linear, and neither are our experiences shaped by factors such as origin, race, sexuality, gender, class, or (dis)ability. Embracing this reality could lead to a safer and better future for everyone.”Taha Metwally, Co-founder of ANKH addresses the governments of the SWANA region: “Acknowledge the undeniable presence of LGBTQI+ individuals in our countries, despite the detrimental policies and measures enforced by authorities. It is high time to heed their voices, attend to their needs, and ensure their rights are safeguarded without any form of discrimination.”The leaders of ANKH express appreciation and gratitude to Rainbow Railroad and all its supporters: “Your efforts have profoundly changed the lives of many who are trying to begin anew far from their homes.”Nada and Taha also reflected on what the queer community means and how queering the system happens over time: “History is not made overnight, but through incremental changes made each day to safeguard the well-being and prosperity of those around us needing support. At some point, each of us has needed support, and it was people like you and I who extended that helping hand. We believe it's a sacred duty to share whatever privileges we possess with those who need it. That’s what makes us a queer community.”