Your support makes all the difference

January 29, 2024

We stand by courageous activists working for sexual and gender diversity all over the world. But their work can be dangerous. They risk being threatened and attacked – even murdered – every day.

Thanks to our donors, we were able to support their important work in 2023.

Take for example, the EMPODERA (’empower’) school for the LGBTIQ+ community in the Andean region of South America. It trains LGBTIQ+ activists in security, advocacy and leadership so they are safer and stronger when fighting for their rights. In 2023, we were able to continue this project with support of our donors.

Legal victories

Some 420 activists have now been trained, and we have taken important steps in influencing regional legislation. Together with local LGBTIQ+ organizations, they have contributed to several successes:

• A ruling by the Constitutional Court in Bolivia protects trans people from arbitrary arrest by the police.
• The Constitutional Court of Colombia recognized that systematic discrimination against LGBTIQ+ people exists.
• Ecuador has appointed an official to craft government policy that ends violence based on sexual diversity.
• In Peru, trans people are now allowed to vote.

Unfortunately, right-wing populist and conservative leaders are rapidly gaining ground in this region. They spread persistent rumors about queer people and incite hatred and discrimination. So now we must redouble our efforts and ensure that statements and good intentions are turned into laws.

Emergency fund for LGBTIQ+ activists

We have an emergency fund that intervenes rapidly to help activists in immediate danger. For example, by providing safe shelter after an assault or serious threat. This immediate help can mean the difference between life and death. Thanks to our donors, we were able to take vital action in 41 cases last year.

We are committed to doing the often difficult job of supporting and protecting LGBTIQ+ activists who fight for their basic human rights. The contributions from our donors make these efforts easier.