Rainbow Refugee
We are proud to support Rainbow Refugee, an organization that promotes safe, equitable migration and communities of belonging for people fleeing persecution based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or HIV status.
Norma (pictured) shares her experience of working at Rainbow Refugee in an interview with our team member, Andrea.
Norma (pictured) shares her experience of working at Rainbow Refugee in an interview with our team member, Andrea.
Andrea: How does it feel when you are able to play a part in supporting an individual facing persecution?
Norma: It is extremely rewarding to know that the work you are doing is supporting another person to find a safer place to call home. We sometimes take things for granted here, and it is very important to take a step back, look at the privileges we have here, and try to find ways to share those privileges with those who need it.
A: What are some ways that communities and individuals can support and create a sense of belonging for LGBTQI+ and HIV+ people who have left behind persecution in their country of origin?
N: There are so many ways to support the work that we do and support newcomers to feel a sense of belonging. People can start their own circles of hope and sponsor refugees to move here; they can volunteer with us and be present in our events; they can spread the word about Rainbow Refugee and the work that we do; they can fundraise for us or become monthly donors which will help us continue providing our work and services to our members.
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A: What inspires you to be so committed to the work you do at Rainbow Refugee?
N: I moved to Vancouver in 2018 because of all the persecution that I faced in my home country. The first organization that I reached out to was Rainbow Refugee. They welcomed me with open arms and gave me all the support I needed. And I promised myself that I will do whatever it takes to support this organization and continue the work that they are doing. 4 years later, I am a permanent full-time staff working with refugees to support other refugees.
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A: What do you hope to accomplish at Rainbow Refugee in the coming year?
N: On a personal level, I hope that I will be able to continue the work that I am doing, working with trans and non binary refugees and supporting other refugees. And my hope for Rainbow Refugee is to keep providing our services and keep growing to meet the ever-increasing needs of our members.
By the Numbers:
Sponsorships in 2022
39 Active Circles of Hope
Circles of Hope are sponsorship groups that raise funds to sponsor a LGBTQI+ refugee and help them resettle in British Columbia, Canada.
39 Active Circles of Hope
Circles of Hope are sponsorship groups that raise funds to sponsor a LGBTQI+ refugee and help them resettle in British Columbia, Canada.
15 New Circles
15 New Circles
13 PSR Applications Submitted
PSR refers to Privately Sponsored Refugee.
13 PSR Applications Submitted
PSR refers to Privately Sponsored Refugee.
16 New Arrivals
16 New Arrivals
24 Circles Providing Active Settlement Support
24 Circles Providing Active Settlement Support
8 Active Members
8 Active Members
Inland Support in 2022
Rainbow Refugee’s Inland Program supports members of the community residing in British Columbia to claim and exercise their rights through information sessions, assistance, and advocacy.
Love is Love Collection
A percentage of proceeds from the upcoming Danica Jubilee Love is Love collection will be donated to Rainbow Refugee in 2024.
