WHO WE ARE
Safe Place International is a holistic leadership development organization for displaced LGBTQIA+ individuals. As the lived experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community are overlooked, we endeavor to create pathways for a sustainable and fulfilled life that celebrates the unique qualities that their lives hold. Our belief in our community members is why we can proudly say that we are a refugee-led, person of color-led, and women-led organization!
WHY WE HELP
LGBTQIA+ refugees around the world face distinctive challenges because of who they are and how they identify. By providing access to safety, community, and support systems that affirm human dignity and human rights, Safe Place International is creating opportunities to ignite and sustain positive change in individual lives, in refugee communities and around the globe.
THE CHALLENGE
In approximately 70 countries, LGBTQIA+ individuals experience violence and discrimination due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. This is caused by oppressive government policies and legislation that criminalizes same-sex relationships. It is also caused by negative religious and societal beliefs. As a result, LGBTQIA+ individuals flee their country in search of a safe space to call their home.
After leaving behind their lives; many refugees find themselves without food, shelter, safety or support for their future. Asylum seekers and refugees that identify as LGBTQIA+ or single mothers are ignored or unseen by the refugee protection system and facing increased marginalization due to their status as refugees and their sexual orientation or gender identity.
OUR SOLUTION
Safe Place International has developed a 3 Pillar Ecosystem Model to address the marginalization faced by LGBTQIA+ displaced persons and single mothers. Our aim is to provide a holistic leadership development that enables displaced persons to regain control of their lives and integrate socially and economically in their communities. The 3 pillars - Protect, Connect, and Lead - are also supported by research and advocacy to bring about government policies and institutional practices that fully protect the human rights of LGBTQIA+ displaced persons and single mothers.
