New Democrats celebrate win on clear path to safety for 2SLGBTQI+ refugees

NDP LGBTQ2IA+ Critic Randall Garrison made the following statement following a new funding announcement that includes a partnership agreement with Rainbow Railroad:

“This announcement is extremely welcome and is a testament to the great work Canadians have been doing to help 2SLGBTQI+ refugees whose lives are at risk find a safe haven.

No one should ever have to be fearful for their lives or safety because of who they are. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case with people who are a part of the 2SLGBTQI+ community around the world, and the consequences are often devastating.

Persecution from systemic, state-enabled homophobia and transphobia happens every day and costs many lives. The government and Rainbow Railroad partnership will get more 2SLGBTQI+ refugees to Canada to protect people from this persecution.

It took the Liberals seven years and four Ministers to listen to the community and my New Democrat colleagues, but I’m extremely happy that this is finally happening.

New Democrats will keep working alongside the 2SLGBTQI+ community and across party lines to make sure that this program runs smoothly and that the funding is stable, so we can do our part in keeping people safe.”