FUNDRAISING FOR LGBTI REFUGEES

The Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Act in  2014 was blocked in court on a technicality, though it is being reintroduced. In any case, the campaign for the bill stirred up demagoguery and fear-mongering that forced many LGBTI persons to seek asylum in fear for their lives. To escape persecution, discrimination, death threats, and jail, they fled to Nairobi, Kenya and registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. UNHCR works with HIAS, an American nonprofit organization that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to refugees. The Ugandan refugees were supported for some time by UNHCR/HIAS. As the numbers of asylum seekers increased, the humanitarian organizations ran short of funds. The refugees were therefore cut off from the monthly stipends that they were using to sustain themselves during a process that often leaves them in limbo for years. The xenophobia, homophobia, and transphobia they face make it hard to find employment. Thus these displaced LGBTI people need assistance with basic necessities like shelter, food, and medication. They are asked to keep low profiles due to the stigma they endure as refugees and LGBTI people. The hostility they face from Kenyans makes it clear that they need resettlement elsewhere. Yet self-affirmation and endurance do not feed or clothe them nor provide shelter or medical care. Please help these brave but suffering people with a donation to our campaign to raise 5,000 US dollars. Their strong spirits and varied talents will enhance any community in which they find a new home. In the meantime, they need our help.