Non-Profit Soapbox

In the nearly 80 countries that criminalize same-sex relationships, LGBT and intersex individuals face daily threats; ultimately, some are forced to flee their country for safety, seeking refuge in equally hostile neighboring countries or in refugee communities where they continue to face ongoing security threats. For many, resettlement to third countries such as the United States represents their only chance of living in safety.

The Council seeks to ensure that U.S. asylum, refugee, and humanitarian parole policies respond to the unique challenges faced by LGBTI individuals fleeing persecution and violence. We seek expedited asylum or refugee protection for LGBT and interex individuals at greatest risk. We advocate for limited use of immigration detention in LGBTI cases. We seek data on the disposition of LGBTI cases, and we analyze the impact of refugee policies and immigration reforms on LGBTI individuals and families.