Afro Brazilian Queer Trans Coll. Facing Eviction
The collective, Kilombo717, was established as a safe space for LGBTQIA+ in vulnerable situations in Campinas, Brazil. Since its birth, this house has been a sanctuary for queer/trans Black people.
Their objectives include providing a safe place for the events/balls/workshops of the ballroom community; with an emphasis on helping the Black trans community. Kilombo717 is currently housing 3 trans people. Among other things, Kilombo717 also hosts a foodbank created to help their community fight hunger.
Unfortunately, because of the pandemic and financial crisis in Brazil, the house of Kilombo717 risks closing due to eviction, leaving its inhabitants to the streets. Only 1 of the house members have a registered job (receiving only the minimum wage; a whopping BR$1,100 or USD$210). There is no other form of steady income in this house.
The current back rent is BR$3,500 (USD$673.85) and while the house members have been able to fundraise some of the money, they are still about BR$2,000 (USD$385) short… that’s where we come in… As a citizen of the USA, it is hard not to recognize the many layers of privilege that exist for me/us, the first that I think of is the power of our USD, which is why I am asking for your help! The current conversion for USD$1 = BR$5.19, meaning if you are able to donate ANY amount, it’s going to make a significant difference to Kilombo717’s campaign.
The eviction this community is facing is an example of the intersections of white supremacy (*exists in more than just the USA), capitalism, colonialism, classism, homophobia, racism, transphobia, etc. We are witnessing firsthand, the ease in which the upper class can access stolen lands in these difficult times while our marginalized communities remain to fend for themselves.
Immediate funds are required for paying the past due and current rent. Any excess funds will be utilized by the collective to fulfill their basic living needs and pay future month’s rent. Let’s help these angels stay put in their home!!