My name is Giuseppina and I will be hosting this fundraiser for two Pakistani lesbians who are at risk of corrective violence as GoFundMe does not operate in Pakistan. In order to protect the identities of these vulnerable women, they have been given the pseudonyms Mary and Emily.

Mary (22) and Emily (24) are two young, Pakistani lesbians who are at risk of being forcibly married to men and thus are at risk of corrective violence. Mary is currently being restricted to her household by her family, effectively trapping and isolating her from any social interaction and possible support from the outside world. Emily's family recently found out she is lesbian and have reacted with threats of violence and are seeking to force her into marriage with a man, effectively sealing any chance she has of a free life.

Countries that are known for accepting LGBT+ people at risk are Canada, Sweden, the Netherlands, Spain, and Belgium. Due to the Australian Dollar being weaker than the Canadian currency and European countries' currencies, the goal for this fundraiser has been set to $5000 Australian Dollars to cover the costs of travel, food, shelter, etc.

Mary and Emily are in a relationship and want to build a life together, an opportunity every lesbian and queer person should have. This fundraiser is Mary and Emily's lifeline; it is the one chance they have to escape violence. Once women have been forced into marriages, it is very difficult to leave . Husbands in forced marriages control finances and will often use direct violence and coercion to prevent the victim from leaving.

A donation as little as $5 helps, every bit counts. Time is ticking, please spread this GoFundMe so we can help Mary and Emily escape corrective violence. Every voice matters.