Canada announces funding to improve safety and rights of 2SLGBTQI+ people

Anita Vandenbeld, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development, participated in Dignity Network Canada’s Opening Panel Discussion, which included 2SLGBTQI+ human rights defenders.During the event, she announced $1.7 million in funding from Canada to be disbursed over three years for 2SLGBTQI+ initiatives around the world.

Canadian organization Rainbow Railroad will receive $700,000 for the International Network on 2SLGBTQI+ Forced Displacement initiative. This project aims to improve the protection of forcibly displaced 2SLGBTQI+ people around the world through research and convenings of civil society organizations, public stakeholders and people experiencing forced displacement.

The U.S. Agency for International Development will receive an additional $1 million for the Multi-Donor LGBTI Global Human Rights Initiative, which works to help protect 2SLGBTQI+ people in developing countries from violence, discrimination, stigma and criminalization. The project conducts research to inform policy; supports communications in social and behavioural change to reduce stigma and discrimination; and provides direct and emergency support to individuals and organizations.