As refugee lawyers, we have witnessed stories of mistreatment, racism, and fear experienced by black LGBTQ2+ refugees after they arrive in Canada. Stories include racial discrimination when finding an apartment or accessing services in the Church-Wellesley Village. Our clients express fear in speaking up to this injustice because of their precarious immigration status. Black LGBTQ2+ refugees have already experienced a lifetime of homophobia and transphobia and arrive in Canada to experience fear due to their race. Change is needed now. Black Newcomer Lives Matter. Black Lives Matter.
We have compiled a list of resources for black LGTBQ2+ newcomers in Toronto below. We stand in support of advocating for justice and freedom from systemic and individual racism in Canada, the United States, and around the world.
LGBTQ2+ Community Resources:
- Black Coalition for Aids Prevention: PHA and LGBTQ Settlement, Refugee Settlement Program
- 519 Church Street Community Centre
- Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto
Youth Resources:
- Supporting Our Youth: Black Queer Youth Group, Express Group
Health and Mental Health Resources:
- Taibu Community Health Centre
Food Security Resources:
- Black Coalition for Aids Prevention: The Aya Project
We see you. We stand with you. We are here for you. Black lives matter.