LGBTIQ+ activists are all too often the targets of hateful political campaigns and face discrimination and violence. The threats they face are not only physical; digital hacks and legal prosecutions also endanger their safety. To help LGBTIQ+ activists out of life-threatening situations worldwide, Hivos set up the Bessy Ferrera Fund. Since 2022, the fund has helped up to 100 people and organizations around the world.
Bessy Ferrera, trans and sex worker rights activist
The fund is named after Bessy Ferrera, a trans activist and sex worker rights advocate from Honduras. Bessy fought for the rights of transgender people, sex workers, and those living with HIV. She advocated tirelessly for the full citizenship of trans people and worked for the safety and dignity of sex workers.
Bessy’s life was tragically cut short in 2019 when she was murdered by two men while working on the streets of Comayagüela.
We established the Bessy Ferrera Fund to honor her legacy and provide swift, practical support to LGBTIQ+ activists at risk, thus continuing her fight for their safety, dignity, and equality.
Life-saving emergency fund
Supported by Dutch individual donors, the fund is meant for LGBTIQ+ activists and organizations in restrictive environments facing severe threats for their activism.
In times of crisis, these activists urgently need resources to ensure their safety. Whether covering medical bills, purchasing a plane ticket to relocate, securing websites, or replacing equipment after office break-ins, quick action is essential.
The Bessy Ferrera Fund provides them immediate support. By working through trusted referrals (including Hivos colleagues and other trusted third parties), we can quickly vet and process their applications.
What does the Bessy Ferrera fund cover?
• Medical costs following physical attacks
• Legal support
• Psycho-social support
• Training on safety and security in response to ongoing threats
• Developing new strategies (e.g., adapting security protocols to the threat, remote working, etc.)
• Relocation assistance (where feasible)
Application process
Criteria for applicants
• The applicant must be an LGBTIQ+ activist, organization, or community working with Hivos or Hivos’ partners.
• The applicant is facing immediate threats due to their advocacy and work.
• The emergency must have occurred within the last three to four months.
• The requested funds must directly relate to addressing the emergency (e.g., medical costs, security, relocation).
• Two positive references are needed, or one positive reference from Hivos if the applicant works directly with Hivos.
How to apply
The application form is available in English, Arabic, French, and Spanish.
For more information, please reach out to the Bessy Ferrera Fund Team at BFF@hivos.org.
Our support for LGBTIQ+ individuals and organizations facing urgent threats is one way we can protect the lives and efforts of those who, like Bessy, bravely work toward a more just and inclusive world. Find out more about our work to advance Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion .
