Canada announces funding to improve safety and rights of 2SLGBTQI+ people
News release
May 9, 2024 - Ottawa, Canada - Global Affairs Canada
People in 2SLGBTQI+ communities continue to face discrimination, violence and marginalization, in Canada and globally. Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing their human rights and socio-economic inclusion.
Today, Anita Vandenbeld, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development, participated in Dignity Network Canada’s Opening Panel Discussion , which included 2SLGBTQI+ human rights defenders. During the event, she announced $1.7 million in funding from Canada to be disbursed over 3 years for 2SLGBTQI+ initiatives around the world.
Canadian organization Rainbow Railroad will receive $700,000 for the International Network on 2SLGBTQI+ Forced Displacement initiative. This project aims to improve the protection of forcibly displaced 2SLGBTQI+ people around the world through research and convenings of civil society organizations, public stakeholders and people experiencing forced displacement. Rainbow Railroad is a global not-for-profit organization that helps at-risk 2SLGBTQI+ people get to safety.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) will receive an additional $1 million for the Multi-Donor LGBTI Global Human Rights Initiative, which works to help protect 2SLGBTQI+ people in developing countries from violence, discrimination, stigma and criminalization. The project conducts research to inform policy; supports communications in social and behavioural change to reduce stigma and discrimination; and provides direct and emergency support to individuals and organizations. The initiative, while managed by USAID, is implemented by the Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice, a philanthropic organization working to support the human rights of 2SLGBTQI+ people around the world.
Quotes
“Canada remains committed to protecting and advancing the rights of 2SLGBTQI+ people globally, especially those in vulnerable regions. We are proud to support our Canadian partner, Rainbow Railroad, which works closely with 2SLGBTQI+ people, as well as experienced partners like USAID, to help empower 2SLGBTQI+ communities around the world.”
- Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development
“The work of 2SLGBTQI+ movements demonstrates the courage and resilience in these brave communities. Projects implemented by Rainbow Railroad and USAID push for progress so that 2SLGBTQI+ people can live with freedom, safety and dignity. Canada will continue to support these efforts until the work is done.”
- Anita Vandenbeld, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development
Quick facts
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In February 2019, Canada committed to providing $30 million over 5 years and $10 million each year after through its LGBTQ2I International Assistance Program.
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Since June 2023, Canada has partnered with Rainbow Railroad to identify and refer at-risk 2SLGBTQI+ refugees through the Government-Assisted Refugee Program.
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Since 2020, Canada has partnered with USAID to support the Multi-Donor LGBTI Global Human Rights Initiative.
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In August 2018, Canada hosted the Equal Rights Coalition’s global conference LGBTI Human Rights and Inclusive Development, in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Associated links
- Project profile: International Network on LGBTQI+ Forced Displacement
- Providing LGBTQI+ people with a safe home in Canada
- LGBTQI+ refugees
- The human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, 2-spirit and intersex persons
- Rights of LGBTI persons
- Rainbow Railroad
- U.S. Agency for International Development
- Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice
Contacts
Olivia Batten
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development
Olivia.Batten@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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