All Stories

Our work is rooted in the freedom of movement: supporting LGBTQI+ people to access safety at home, and to exercise their right to asylum when needed.

Rainbow Railroad at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva

LGBTQI+ Refugees Caught in a Global Attack on LGBTQI+ and Asylum Rights

“Rainbow Railroad changed my life,” Deacon reflects. “From persecution to liberation and freedom — that’s what they gave me.”

We're proud to share Rainbow Railroad’s 2024 Annual Report: Understanding the State of Global LGBTQI+ Persecution, a powerful reflection of the impact we’ve made together over the past year, and a call to action as we look ahead.The Annual Report serves as one of the only published data sources on LGBTQI+ forced displacement in the world. In 2021, we began publishing our proprietary data to map the state of global LGBTQI+ persecution according to our requests for help. This report has since become a critical document in the LGBTQI+ forced displacement sector, used by academics, civil society organizations, and government actors as a key tool in policy development and advocacy for LGBTQI+ refugees.Long-term relationship-building with states, UN agencies, and international organizations has allowed us to disseminate our data and share our expertise on the world stage. Rainbow Railroad is well connected to a global network of LGBTQI+ organizations and rights defenders. This unique position allows us to elevate the voices of the individuals we serve and the partners we work alongside, to drive systemic change at a global level.In 2024, Rainbow Railroad received more than 13,000 requests for help from LGBTQI+ people around the world. This figure is more than just data: it’s a stark indicator of the growing need for safety among those facing state-sponsored violence, criminalization, and persecution simply because of who they are or who they love.Last year, we provided support to 5,916 individuals across our program areas. Our work encompassed emergency travel support and in-country assistance, advocating for inclusive asylum pathways, building long-term partnerships in regions of highest need, and more. Behind each number in the report is a story of resilience: individuals who dared to seek freedom, and communities that stood with them.The 2024 Annual Report highlights the realities of this global crisis, and the role Rainbow Railroad, and our community of supporters, play in meeting it head-on with compassion, resolve, and action. We invite you to read the report, reflect on the progress we’ve made, and continue standing in solidarity with LGBTQI+ people worldwide.You can read and download the report here.

“Our youth, and their determination to fight this cruel world system. That’s what gives me hope. That, and organizations like Rainbow that fight to protect us.”

“Like seeds, our stories hold the promise of hope. Even in the darkest hours, we carry the inner light of those who believe. You are never alone — and your truth is a beautiful act of resistance.”

“No matter where you are, there are people who understand and will stand with you,” Rahma says. “You are not alone.”

Rainbow Railroad expresses deep concern about the impact of Bill C-2 on LGBTQI+ refugees, and calls on the government to withdraw the legislation.

When D’John arrived in Toronto from Jamaica, he was seeking something many take for granted — the chance to live freely, without fear. As a gay man, life back home was filled with threats, isolation, and rejection. Reaching out to Rainbow Railroad was his first step toward reclaiming his future.Today, he stands proudly in his truth. With safety, support, and a growing sense of purpose, he now calls Canada home. And this Pride, he’s not just celebrating — he’s daring to resist.A Journey Marked by Healing and BelongingFor many LGBTQI+ newcomers, the journey to freedom is long, complex, and challenging. But it’s also filled with moments of profound growth.“My resettlement journey has been filled with lots of tears, healing, and growth,” D'John shares. “I found community through my network, especially by volunteering with grassroots organizations. That’s where I began to feel connected — like I belonged.”This year, he’ll be celebrating Pride at Toronto’s iconic Green Space Festival at The 519, surrounded by friends, chosen family, and community. “Pride means I can live freely. That I don’t have to hide any part of myself. I’m finally whole.”Embracing Change, Challenging the NormThis year’s Pride theme, Solidarity in Pride: Dare to Resist, resonates deeply with him.“To me, ‘Dare to Resist’ means resisting the status quo. It means daring to rewrite our present,” D'John says.He believes resistance can take many forms — from visibility to leadership, from refusing silence to seeking justice. “Right now, the queer community needs to resist the urge to accept what has always been,” he urges. “We must strive to be represented at every level.”From Isolation to CommunityHis message for those resettling today is clear: newcomers need holistic, wraparound support. “When you move to a new country, you have to rewire your entire life.”He’s seen firsthand the power of solidarity in helping others feel less isolated. “We need people to step up — donate time, donate money, learn about the community. Get involved.”For him, that support made all the difference. Rainbow Railroad, he says, didn’t just help him escape — they gave him a reason to live. “Their support gave me the opportunity to live, not just exist.”Joy, Resistance, and the Power of FamilyIn a world where queer lives are still under threat, joy becomes a radical act — and his greatest source of joy is his family.And when he wants to feel uplifted and affirmed, he turns to the powerful anthem Stand Up by Cynthia Erivo. “It makes me feel proud of who I am.”To him, queer liberation means more than survival. “It’s owning our identities and wearing them intentionally,” he says.A Message of Strength for OthersTo LGBTQI+ people still facing persecution, his message is one of unwavering hope.“You matter. You do have a right to be you. And you will be strong — and live.”He knows the journey isn’t easy. But he also knows that the work Rainbow Railroad is doing is transformational. “It’s so needed. I just wish there was even more that could be done to expand this work to reach more people.”And as for what gives him hope? “My own personal goals,” he says, simply.From a moment of darkness to a life filled with purpose, this is what transformation looks like. This is what resistance looks like.This Pride season, show your solidarity not just in celebration, but in action. Support queer and trans people on their path to safety. Donate now.

“‘Dare to Resist’ means refusing to be silent in the face of injustice. It means living boldly and authentically, even when the world tells you not to.”

“I really want to leave a legacy that helps people live freely — the freedom to be themselves, to live as authentic human beings without having to hide or face violence.”