Standing Strong: Rainbow Railroad Mobilizes to Support LGBTQI+ Refugees in the United States

The re-election of Trump, marked by a campaign that vilified immigrants and LGBTQI+ individuals, has sent shockwaves throughout our communities. For many queer people, refugees, and immigrants in the U.S., this moment has intensified fears for their safety. Across the country, mutual aid networks are mobilizing to help vulnerable queer Americans move to safer, affirming cities. We must step up as a community in support of LGBTQI+ refugees in the United States.

In the face of these challenges, Rainbow Railroad stands committed to ensuring that refugee resettlement and asylum remain safe and accessible to LGBTQI+ people fleeing persecution. Our partnership with Welcome Corps has empowered us to mobilize volunteer groups of LGBTQI+ people and allies to welcome queer refugees into communities that embrace and affirm them. Together, we are working to bring as many LGBTQI+ refugees into affirming communities as possible before the upcoming inauguration. But we need your help.

Show Your Solidarity with LGBTQI+ Refugees in the United States

We call on our allies and supporters to join us in this urgent work. Every refugee we welcome needs a support group of five or more volunteers as they build new lives. At Rainbow Railroad, we refer to these groups as Communities of Care, and the relationships extend beyond this first act of welcome.

Rainbow Railroad stands firmly in the legacy of American LGBTQI+ activism. This legacy is defined by resilience, coalition-building, and an unwavering commitment to the safety and protection of all LGBTQI+ people, regardless of nationality or legal status. Now, more than ever, our work is vital. We remain dedicated to forging pathways to safety, dignity, and justice for forcibly displaced LGBTQI+ individuals.

Our Communities of Care will play a key role in supporting LGBTQI+ newcomers over the next four years, ensuring support and welcome regardless of the actions of the future administration.

The road ahead may be challenging. But together, we can ensure that LGBTQI+ refugees and asylum seekers find the refuge, community and hope they deserve.

Learn more about how you can support LGTBQI+ refugees in your community here.