Canada Supports Afghan LGBTQ2 Individuals During Pride Month
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Canada’s Commitment to Afghan Refugees
Canada is dedicated to resettling at least 40,000 Afghan nationals swiftly and securely. To date, Canada has welcomed 14,645 Afghan refugees, with more arriving regularly.
Pride Month in Canada underscores the courage and diversity of the LGBTQ2 community. Canada has a history of aiding vulnerable groups, including LGBTQ2 refugees. To assist those fleeing persecution due to sexual orientation or gender identity, Canada initiated a special humanitarian program for vulnerable Afghans, including LGBTQ2 individuals.
In partnership with the Rainbow Refugee Society through the Rainbow Refugee Assistance Partnership, IRCC encourages Canadians to sponsor LGBTQ2 refugees. Originally, this partnership provided 50 cost-sharing spaces annually for privately sponsored refugees. Due to the Afghanistan crisis, it was expanded to include an additional 150 spaces for Afghan refugees from 2022 to 2024.
Canada acknowledges the unique challenges LGBTQ2 refugees face and remains committed to their safety. The support from Canadians across the nation has been invaluable in welcoming these individuals. Discover how you can contribute to making Canada their home.
Media can access photos of previous arrivals, and stay updated on Canada’s progress in welcoming Afghan refugees.
Voices of Support
“LGBTQ2 refugees face severe challenges simply for their identity, making them targets for persecution in countries like Afghanistan. With partners like Rainbow Refugee Society, we aim to create inclusive communities for these vulnerable refugees. We will continue funding organizations that provide essential services to those seeking refuge in Canada.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Rainbow Refugee welcomes Canada’s initiative to expand sponsorship spaces for LGBTQ2 refugees from Afghanistan. Persecution based on sexuality and gender identity is widespread, and in conflict zones, LGBTQ2 individuals are particularly vulnerable. Expanding safety pathways is crucial for fulfilling Canada’s human rights obligations.”
– Aleks Dughman-Manzur, Co-Executive Director, Rainbow Refugee Society
Key Information
- The Rainbow Refugee Assistance Partnership offers start-up costs and three months of income support, while private sponsors provide nine months of support.
- By May 2022, over 170 refugees had been resettled through this initiative with the Rainbow Refugee Society.
- Refugees eligible for Canada’s resettlement program must be referred by designated organizations like the United Nations Refugee Agency or be privately sponsored.
- IRCC funds at least 55 service provider organizations (SPOs) that support LGBTQ2 refugees and has developed a curriculum with five SPOs and local LGBTQ2 groups in cities like Halifax, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Vancouver.
Related Resources
Media Contacts
For media inquiries
Aidan Strickland
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Aidan.Strickland@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs About Afghan LGBTQ2 Refugees
What is the Rainbow Refugee Assistance Partnership?
It is a collaborative initiative providing financial and community support for LGBTQ2 refugees, with start-up costs and three months of government income support.
How many Afghan refugees has Canada resettled?
As of now, Canada has welcomed over 14,645 Afghan refugees, with ongoing efforts to increase this number.
How can I help Afghan LGBTQ2 refugees in Canada?
Canadians can support by sponsoring refugees or volunteering through various organizations. Learn about ways you can help.
Who can refer refugees to Canada’s resettlement program?
Refugees must be referred by designated organizations like the United Nations Refugee Agency or through private sponsorship.
Canada remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting LGBTQ2 refugees, ensuring their safety and integration into Canadian society. Read our immigration guide for more information.
