All Stories

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.” 

“In those moments,  I feel so much disappointment, because the most powerful government in the world claims not to have the capacity to help or process the people who are in most need of protection.“- Brigitte Baltazar Lujano, LGBTQI+ coordinator at Al Otro Lado (AOL). AOL is a women-led bi-national advocacy, legal and humanitarian aid organization serving migrants, refugees and deportees in the United States and Mexico.Documenting the violations of civil and human rights by the Mexican and U.S. law enforcement authorities that deportees and migrants faced, AOL started as a project in 2011 in Tijuana, Mexico. It wasn’t until 2016, when Trump was elected president, that AOL expanded its focus to include asylum seekers whose federal and international rights were being violated when Customs and Border Protection began turning asylum seekers away from U.S. ports of entry. AOL since then, has grown exponentially to meet the growing needs of thousands of refugees by providing critical legal and humanitarian aid on both sides of the border in response to unjust immigration policies.Al Otro Lado provides “Know Your Rights” materials through asylum 101 workshops, and various shelters throughout Tijuana. AOL also utilizes platforms like TikTok which disseminates essential information on asylum process and immigration policies in 16 different languages, serving thousands of migrants.Uncertainty for Asylum Seekers at the U.S.-Mexico border Recent discussions around the U.S.-Mexico border among policymakers in March, 2024 have created apprehension within the community of asylum seekers. And while seeking asylum is a right in both the U.S and international laws, the new executive order that took effect in early June  allows the U.S. administration to stop processing asylum claims if the number of irregular crossings at the US-Mexico border surpasses an average of 2,500 per day for a week.AOL services are directly affected by U.S. Government policies; when policy changes take effect, AOL is required to immediately revamp their service delivery model to continue to benefit the community of asylum seekers. This requires AOL to retrain staff and volunteers and to revise and translate Know-Your-Rights educational materials.“The uncertainty of border policy and the U.S. government's ongoing efforts to limit access to asylum at the southern border, keeps all of us hyper-vigilant and always waiting for the next piece of bad news“ elaborates Nicole Ramos, AOL's Border Rights Project director on the state of mind in regards to this line of work.   Responding to the Needs of LGBTQI+ Asylum SeekersRainbow Railroad was introduced to AOL’s work with migrants, asylum seekers and refugees when staff visited the U.S.-Mexico border in 2019 to learn about the LGBTQI+ asylum seekers who were trapped in dangerous border cities due to the draconian immigration laws. LGBTQI+ asylum seekers traveling to the Mexico-U.S. border often face physical violence, abductions for ransoms and a lack of a safe means of transportation. At the border, there is a severe shortage of shelter spaces for queer individuals as well as food, water and healthcare. LGBTQI+ people are at a greater risk of harm because of their identities, including gender identity or expression.In 2021 AOL began working together with Rainbow Railroad around a pilot program supported by the Canadian government to offer asylum seekers the option of resettling toArgentina, where the asylum seeking process is not adversarial and doesn’t lead to detention.Since then, and over the course of two years, Rainbow Railroad has helped fund critical components of AOL’s LGBTQI+ program including safe transportation for asylum seekers, medication access, emergency housing, translation costs of “Know Your Rights” materials on emerging border policies and LGBTQI+ shelter support. Rainbow Railroad has also referred LGBTQI+ asylum seekers in Tijuana to AOL’s legal orientation and shelter services as well as medical services to provide HIV medication and hormone treatment.Brigitte Baltazar Lujano, LGBTQI+ coordinator at AOL emphasizes Rainbow Railroad’s crucial role in  supporting AOL’s work, “We wouldn’t have had the capacity to help as many people as we helped to find shelter and a safe place to stay, life-saving medication and important access to resources to help them seek asylum in the United States.” Governments Falling Short On reckoning with the most difficult part of the day-to-day work, Baltazar Lujano highlights the only government approved pathway to asylum, a smartphone application called CBP One, which is often inaccessible with system-wide glitches that render it inoperable for days at a time. “In those moments, I feel so much disappointment, because the most powerful government in the world claims not to have the capacity to help or process the people who are in most need of protection.“The most rewarding part of the day-to-day work for Brigitte is when an asylum seeker is finally able to cross the US-Mexico border and is in the United States, safe from the danger they fled, to focus on their new journey.Addressing the Mexican government, Brigitte articulates “If you can’t protect our people, stop standing in the way of their attempts to seek protection in the U.S. Stop sending the National Guard to do the U.S.’s dirty work by keeping people from reaching the U.S border.”AOL aspires to ensure all the communities they serve have prompt access to the legal process, which can significantly improve their  well-being and safety.For AOL, queer community means family, compassion, love, resilience, resistance, and strength.Brigitte asserts to LGBTQI+ individuals who are facing difficulties “Remember to never lose hope, to stand firm in your beliefs and to keep fighting for your lives, no matter what. As long as you’re still alive, there is always hope.” 

At Rainbow Railroad, we strive to help at-risk LGBTQI+ individuals get to safety, but the journey for refugees doesn’t end when they arrive in a safer country. In 2023, across all of our relocation programs, we relocated 447 people, including through government resettlement, private sponsorship and ETS. Having multiple pathways at our disposal means that we can reach more people in their specific circumstances. However, the journey of LGBTQI+ people toward queer liberation doesn’t end when they arrive in a new country.A Continuing Journey: Beyond Initial RelocationWe spoke with individuals who we relocated through ETS to better understand their experiences after relocation. They told us that their path to safety and acceptance was paved with deep challenges. Relocating 434 individuals from 34 countries through ETS in 2023 was an important achievement, and we need to understand the complexity of people’s individual experiences. Despite the initial relief of escaping danger, many face significant hurdles such as cultural adaptation, employment, housing, language barriers, social exclusion, and the search for a supportive community. Even in safer environments, some report encountering discrimination and racism within the very communities they hoped would welcome them.Although the narratives shared are diverse, from grappling with the prolonged asylum processes in Canada to confronting racism in Germany, a recurring theme emerges: while welcomed for their queer identities, LGBTQI+ people who are relocated often experience discrimination or harm due to their racial or national identity. Even in states with legal protections for the LGBTQI+ community, safety for LGBTQI+ persons is a relative experience impacted by the intersections of an individual’s identity.Emotional Journeys: The Long Road to BelongingThe emotional landscape of those who have relocated evolves over time. It takes time to find a true sense of home and belonging. The stories in our Annual Report underscore the need for more resources to support resettlement efforts and address the gaps in ensuring lasting safety and acceptance.Pasha’s journey exemplifies the emotional struggle after resettling. “My escape hasn’t ended while crossing borders. A safe place doesn’t become safe when the mind is a hostage. I do need help in rebuilding my life and finding new dreams but also, I need a strong community that will help me heal and accomplish justice for those who seek it,” Pasha shares.Positive Outcomes and the Ongoing Need for SupportWhile we take pride in our relocation efforts, the work is far from over. It is the collective responsibility of governments, civil society, and host communities to ensure the safe relocation and integration of LGBTQI+ people. By acknowledging and addressing the diverse and evolving needs of those we relocate, we can better dismantle the systemic barriers that prevent queer, trans, and intersex persons from living full lives.Encouragingly, 91% of people relocated by Rainbow Railroad reported enhanced personal safety in their destination countries, and 76% noted an improved quality of life. These statistics remind us of the importance of our mission and the positive impact we can achieve together.Read our full Annual Report to learn more about the stories, challenges, and triumphs of those we support.

Despite legal protections for queer and trans individuals, there is still an ongoing fight for LGBTQI+ equality in South Africa. Access Chapter 2 (AC2) is a human rights organization established in 2003, focusing on protecting and promoting the rights of LGBTQI+ individuals in South Africa. AC2 confronts ongoing stigma, violence, and legal barriers to ensure full equality and support for the LGBTQI+ community.Although South Africa has made progressive strides in legislation protecting the LGBTQI+ community, queer and trans people still experience stigma, violence, and harassment. Organizations like AC2 provide critical support to the LGBTQI+ community through social services, legal assistance, and advocacy. AC2 supports women and girls, and people living with, or vulnerable to, HIV and tuberculosis, and assists queer migrants who are navigating the asylum system in South Africa.  They believe human rights are the foundation of a just and compassionate society, a belief rooted in their work with diverse and vulnerable individuals seeking healthcare services.  AC2 also operates a clinic providing legal services and psychosocial support. They monitor and support court cases affecting queer people and their families.In addition to providing individual support, AC2 pursues advocacy work that includes training of police officers, teachers, students, doctors and nurses on LGBTQI+ issues. Rainbow Railroad provided funding to AC2 in 2022, enabling them to reach more people and amplify their advocacy efforts. Looking Ahead: Reaching Rural LGBTQI+ CommunitiesAC2 aims to expand its reach to people in rural areas who lack access to services. They aspire to have offices in all nine provinces of South Africa, which would make a significant difference. Currently, they have fully functional offices in two provinces and paralegals in two additional provinces.Mrs. Noxolo Mguni, Legal Associate, Access Chapter 2, describes the most rewarding part of the organization’s work as when a migrant finally receives their documentation and no longer has to live in fear. The most challenging aspects are engaging with state governments for prolonged court processes and the emotional toll of the work.To queer individuals facing difficulty, Noxolo reflects, “Making a difference starts with you. Don’t tolerate any harassment or violations—report any misconduct. Many matters go unreported, but if they were reported, they could lead to changes in laws and policies. People need to know that we will not accept any human rights violations.”Addressing the government, Noxolo says, “I would ask them to ensure their officials are sensitized and to pass the hate crimes bill.”Working in Solidarity for LGBTQI+ Equality in South AfricaNoxolo appreciates supporters of Rainbow Railroad, explaining that increased support for organizations like Rainbow Railroad also benefits organizations like AC2.To Noxolo, the queer community means freedom, expression, and refuge. To queer the system means creating an environment where queer people do not always have to fight for inclusion. 

Gathering for Advocacy: RCUSA Advocacy Days