Support a Middle Eastern Queer Asylum Seeker

Note: We had to keep much of our friend’s personal information secret pending their asylum case proceedings and for fear of their home country’s retaliation.

In the past year, fearing for their life, our friend has had to not only cut off their family but escape to the US leaving their entire life behind them. As a recent graduate in the middle of a global pandemic, our friend set on a journey in search of safety and the freedom to be themselves. Unfortunately, during their time in the US, the Trump administration has enacted rules and guidelines that have made it harder for asylum seekers to apply for asylum and has specifically targeted LGBTQ asylum seekers in its crackdown on legal asylum seeking proceedings in the United States of America.

We know that much of the harm done in the last four years on legal immigration will need time to be undone. Unfortunately, time is not on our friend’s side. While they do not blame those that work without a permit to make ends meet, our friend has chosen to respect US laws and wait until they have the right to legally work. This process as we know it now takes a WHOLE YEAR from the date of submitting the asylum application.

The money we are trying to raise is to support our friend on their journey. With no biological family ties, no savings left and no government support available, all our friend has left is the kindness and generosity of their close friends but that can only go so far.

The fund will help cover food, transportation, settling in and medical costs as well as winter clothing and serve as our friend’s only safety net.

But whom will you be helping exactly? 

We count on your understanding of the rationale behind concealing our friend’s identity, and until they can finally thank you all in person once they are granted legal protection, here is what we see them as and why they mean the world to us: They are undoubtedly one of the smartest people you will meet. They are a walking encyclopedia confidently covering the realms of history, politics, philosophy, religions, arts, economics and sciences. They are always the first to help those in need (whether they know them or not). You will find them at the forefront of activism for the environment, human rights and freedoms in general. For a while, they shaped and led a major task-force to combat sexual harassment. 

Oh and they are crazy talented: killer acting skills (actually nominated for awards in theatre performance), they are blessed with a magical voice and great singing abilities (think chamber singing, choir, gospel and classic!). We would hate to see a gem of a human being like our friend being held back from realizing their big dreams after everything they have been through and overcome to make it to the US; YOU can make a difference.

Please consider donating. Every dollar helps!


With love,

Friends of a Queer Asylum Seeker trying to live their truth