Here’s how you can help LGBTQ communities struggling with the consequences of Covid-19
A recent consultation by Kaleidoscope Trust reveals an unfolding humanitarian crisis for LGBTQ people across the Commonwealth.
By Will Stroude
The impact of Covid-19 on the entire world has been swift and severe. But as the full social and economic consequences of the crisis become clear, vulnerable LGBTQ communities around the globe are some of the most at-risk.
From food insecurity to homelessness, mental health to domestic violence, LGBTQ people on the fringes of society who are often the most at-risk are in danger of falling even further behind.
A recent consultation by LGBTQ human rights group Kaleidoscope Trust of 34 LGBTIQ charities working in 37 Commonwealth countries reveals an unfolding humanitarian crisis among LGBTQ people across the Commonwealth.
But we can help those in our community during these difficult times.
As charitable organisations feel the pressure from falling donations and resources Kaleidoscope Trust have launched a Covid-19 response campaign and fundraiser to ensure that the human rights and dignity of vulnerable LGBTQ populations are protected during – and beyond – the coronavirus crisis.
You can help support LGBTQ people struggling with the consequences of Covid-19 by donating here.
Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, executive director of Kaleidoscope Trust, says: “We are witnessing an emerging humanitarian crisis for LGBTI+ people as government responses to Covid-19 leave vulnerable LGBTI+ communities at grave risk.
“Commonwealth states must act now to prevent further deterioration of the situation domestically, and the UK has the opportunity to show international leadership in its role as Commonwealth Chair-in-Office.
“The Commonwealth Equality Network (TCEN) contributed to the UK government recognising and expressing regret for anti-LGBTI+ laws that were enacted across the Commonwealth during the UK’s colonial regime.
“LGBTI+ human rights are important during the best of times and the worst of times. If the government is to make good on its promise to address and redress colonial-era wrongs, then LGBTI+ people across the Commonwealth cannot be left behind during the Covid-19 crisis.
“The structural vulnerabilities codified in laws and social attitudes in countries across the world are made worse during a crisis like Covid-19. The UK government has a responsibility to ensure LGBTI+ human rights work is able to continue during the Covid-19 crisis.”
For more information about Kaleidoscope Trust’s Covid-19 response campaign, click here.