In 2024, the wave of repression in Belarus reached a critical point. Among those who came under attack by the regime are 18 brave LGBTQ+ activists who for years fought for human rights, helped victims of violence and political persecution, and organized important initiatives for their community.
These people are not just numbers in repression statistics. They are volunteers of organizations such as "TG House," "Viasna," the Belarusian Helsinki Committee. These are those who since 2020 participated in feminist, trans-, queer- and human rights initiatives, risking their own safety for the protection of others' rights.
Today these activists are experiencing the most difficult period in their lives:
᠂ Some were detained and subjected to interrogations
᠂ Others were called to the KGB, threatened on social media and by phone
᠂ Some received "extremist" status after information about their activities was leaked
᠂ Many urgently left Belarus, heading to Lithuania, Poland, France, Georgia
᠂ Those who remained live in constant fear and uncertainty
The consequences of repression are devastating: loss of housing and work, lack of access to education and medical care, traumatic stress and PTSD. Some activists face a ban on entry to the EU due to errors in asylum applications made under severe stress.
Currently, 18 Belarusian LGBTQ+ activists need emergency support. Each will receive 500 euros to cover the most urgent needs:
Safe housing
Rental of temporary or permanent housing for those who lost their homes or are forced to hide
Psychological support
Professional assistance to overcome trauma and PTSD (some are already receiving help "on credit")
Status legalization
Visa processing, filing for international protection, legal support
Basic needs
Food, hygiene items, transport, clothing
Property restoration
Replacement of equipment, documents and personal belongings lost after detentions or forced relocations
Continuation of activities
Opportunity to resume education and continue human rights work
"Do you often hear that now is supposedly not the time to talk about LGBTQ+ rights?" asks activist and director Pasha Jajora. Her answer is unambiguous: "The question of human rights is a question that can never be postponed."
These activists are not just people who suffered from the regime. This is a community that wants to live, continue helping others, be useful and free. They have proven their commitment to the values of human dignity and equality, and now need our solidarity.
Every euro you donate is:й
᠂ A roof over the head for someone who lost their home
᠂ Safety for those hiding from persecution
᠂ Hope for rebuilding a destroyed life
᠂ Opportunity to continue the fight for human rights
The fundraising is organized by the "Emergency Humanitarian Aid" service — a union of BYSOL, By_Help, "Country for Life" and Dissidentby foundations.
Goal: to collect 9,000 euros for 18 LGBTQ+ activists
We live in times when human rights are being tested around the world. Belarusian LGBTQ+ activists are not only part of our community, but also a symbol of resistance to authoritarianism and discrimination.
Don't postpone it. Every day of delay is another day of uncertainty and suffering for those who risked everything to protect others' rights.
Any amount matters. Together we can show that solidarity is stronger than repression, and human dignity is inviolable.
Support Belarusian LGBTQ+ activists. They deserve it.
Every donation helps support political prisoners and their families, giving them hope and the means to overcome challenges.
