LGBTQI Ukrainians at Risk
A year ago, Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine shocked the world. Already vulnerable, the LGBTQI community was under threat both from the conflict and the potential aftermath, through Russia’s persecution of LGBTQI people. GiveOut, in partnership with Outright International, activated our LGBTQI Emergency Fund and launched an appeal to support LGBTQI people most at risk.
During emergencies, our communities rely more than ever on the support – and protection – of local LGBTQI organisations. And these organisations in turn rely on the support of our community globally.
How Your Support is Making a Difference
With your generous support, Insight are delivering 200 care packages a day to the most marginalised communities in Ukraine. Olena from Insight said:
“Right now, people are asking for something which will allow them to not freeze during the winter because of the lack of electricity. For instance, the temperature in my parents’ apartment yesterday was 4 degrees. And it’s even worse in those regions of eastern Ukraine because people don’t have any walls due to heavy shelling. So they need everything, lamps, gas canisters, something to cook the food, and just basic batteries, candles, and also flashlights. So we are trying to fundraise to provide these resources.
Our care packages mostly consist of hygiene items for babies and adults, as well as food, medicine including hormones for trans people, blankets and other items to keep warm. For instance, one person asked for insulin and specific medicine just to survive.”
Kyiv Pride have set up an LGBTQI shelter for those needing refuge and support. Lenny from Kyiv Pride explained:
“Unfortunately, marginalised communities like LGBTQI people have been left behind for years. So we’re building shelters. We’re providing direct help to the community members. We have a shelter for up to 25 people and a community centre. There is help with medication, food, and relocation. We have a refugee right now in our shelter whose home was occupied by Russians who came in with weapons, and he fled. When we opened the shelter, people started coming in and this emotional exchange with the community was really helping.”