Everyone will at some point in their life move from one place to another. Some people even cross international borders – to find work, get a better education, or reunite with their families. In many cases however, moving is not a choice, but the only way to escape violence, discrimination and marginalization.
For many lesbian, gay, bi, trans, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people, leaving their communities in search of a safer and more welcoming place to call home is the only way to find a job, get access to healthcare or find safety from poverty, family rejection, criminalization, threats and violence. For some, this means moving from a small town to the big city. For others it can require moving from one part of the world to another – surviving a dangerous journey and staggering odds in order to try to find a place where they can live openly as their true selves.
Often, discrimination doesn’t stop upon arrival at their destination. Many continue to face prejudice, harassment and violence both based on where they were born as well as based on their sexual orientation, gender identity/expression or sex characteristics. Trans and nonbinary people are particularly at risk. Even everyday acts that most of us take for granted, such as going to the doctor or opening a bank account, can be dangerous for those who are undocumented because they can lead to deportation or imprisonment. LGBTIQ+ migrants are also more likely to experience homelessness, forced to pay high rent or live in poor conditions. Unable to find a community where they are truly accepted, they often struggle with loneliness, helplessness and depression. They are also frequently compelled to take jobs with few protections and poor working conditions. For those who also face marginalization for other reasons, such as their race, ethnicity, age, gender, disabilities, religion or other characteristics, the situation can get even more precarious.
Every human being deserves the freedom to simply be themselves, without facing violence and discrimination. Together we can create a future free from prejudice, where everyone truly belongs – no matter who they are, whom they love or where they come from.
