We are a group of LGBTQ+ activists from Belarus. Since 2020, we have been involved in feminist, trans, queer and human rights initiatives, helping others, organizing events, supporting victims of violence and political persecution. Some of us volunteer for initiatives such as TG House, Viasna, the Belarusian Helsinki Committee, and others.
In 2024, the situation became critical. A wave of repression, KGB pressure, criminal cases, detentions and “extremist” articles affected us too.
Some of us were detained. Some were summoned for questioning, some were threatened on social media and by phone. There was a leak of information about one of the initiatives we participated in, as a result — some of our colleagues were under investigation or have already received “extremist” status.
Some of us urgently left for Lithuania, Poland, France, Georgia, others are still in Belarus. Many have lost their homes, jobs, access to education and medical care. Some are facing a ban on entry into the EU due to mistakes related to applying for asylum while under stress and PTSD. We are in different countries, in other situations, but united by a common experience of vulnerability and the fight for safety, as well as the desire to continue our work.
Now we urgently need help to survive this stage and not lose ourselves. We are raising funds for:
— Rental housing
— Psychological support (some of us are already receiving help “on credit”)
— Visa processing, applying for international protection, legalization
— Covering basic needs — food, hygiene, transportation
— Restoring equipment lost after detentions or relocations
— Resuming education and the opportunity to continue human rights activities
We are not just people who suffered from the regime. We are a community that wants to live, continue to help others, be useful and free.
If you have the opportunity, support us.
Any amount now is protection, food, a roof over your head and a chance for safety.
Thank you for your solidarity!
The collection is organized by the project “First Humanitarian Aid”, which includes as foundations as BYSOL, By_Help, “Country for Life” and Dissidentby Foundations.
The collection amount is 9,000 euros — payments for 18 repressed activists of 500 euros each for household needs due to the difficult situation.