Dear Friends,

Let's make 2024 a year to remember by spreading love, hope, and unity! In this issue:

• Update: 700 Endangered LGBTQ+ Refugees Helped
• UPHELD: Uganda "Kill the Gays" - You Can Help

• Volunteer: Help Paint the Rainbow Bus - June 1 & 2
• March for Love: Join us in the SF Pride Parade - June 30

LGBTQ+ individuals in the Middle East face significant challenges with limited rights and widespread hostility. In many countries across the region, same-sex relationships are illegal, with severe punishments including death in some cases. The prevailing cultural and religious norms, particularly influenced by Islam, play a significant role in shaping the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ citizens.

For over a decade, RWF has been a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ refugees from Afghanistan, Syria, and Iraq, providing critical emergency assistance and safe passage to nearly 700 individuals and their families. Through dedicated efforts, RWF has facilitated life-changing journeys to Canada, Germany, and the USA, with an additional 250 individuals currently awaiting the opportunity to start anew in other welcoming countries. Join us in supporting RWF's mission of saving lives and offering a path to safety and citizenship for LGBTQ+ refugees in need.

Your donation can be the light at the end of the tunnel for those in need. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter future, where acceptance and visibility shine brightly. Join us in building bridges and changing perceptions. Donate now to the Rainbow World Fund and let's paint the world with the colors of inclusivity and understanding!

Photo credit: Alessandro Alle 

The decision last month by Uganda to largely uphold the "Kill the Gays" law has sparked outrage and concern among human rights activists worldwide. This law not only violates basic human rights but also perpetuates discrimination and violence against the LGBTQ+ community. It is essential to stand together and advocate for equality, rights, and justice for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The law further scapegoated the LGBTQ+ community, and has fueled widespread hatred, discrimination, and violence. The vast majority of Ugandans support the law, and much of the violence comes at the hands of vigilante groups or individuals. Transgender Ugandans are particularly targeted.

RWF is sending funds to Uganda to provide for emergency shelter, food, medical care, travel support, and legal aid. Please select the "Uganda LGBTQ+ Emergency Aid Fund" when asked where to designate your donation.

Please unite with RWF to ensure that love triumphs over hate, and that every individual has the right to love freely and without fear.

Photo credit: Charles Nambasi

Volunteers are needed to help paint the Rainbow Bus of Hope. to get it ready for San Francisco Pride. The bus is used as an outreach tool at community events and to deliver humanitarian aid.

We will hand paint the bus using exterior house paint. There are a variety of tasks involved (taping, painting, tidying up ..). This is a fun outdoor activity. 

Dates: Saturday & Sunday, June 1 & 2, 2024

Time: 10 AM to 1 PM

Location: Treasure Island, 148 12th Street, San Francisco, CA 94130 

• Volunteers should bring water bottle, sun protection, and layers
• Street parking is available or you can take the MUNI #25 bus

You must register to help! 

Click here to let us know when you are available to help.

Join Rainbow World Fund in marching at the San Francisco Pride Parade on June 30, 2024.

Stand up for love and support LGBTQ+ refugees as we celebrate love in all its forms. Let's unite to ensure that everyone can love freely without fear.

We will be marching together with other international LGBTQ+ groups united to raise awareness of the plight of endangered LGBTQ+ refugees and internally displace persons around the globe.

You must register to march with us! Click here to sign up.

We have limited space on the bus for those unable to march.

At RWF, we are proud to be the world's pioneer LGBTQ+ focused humanitarian aid organization. By championing peace, unity, and hope, we are at the forefront of the LGBTQ movement, actively engaging in humanitarian relief endeavors. With a remarkable track record of over $6.5 million in life-saving aid contributions helping tens of thousands and 90,000 volunteer service hours, RWF invites you to join us in making a meaningful difference on a global scale. Together, let's create a more inclusive and compassionate world through our collective efforts. Founded in 2000 RWF is all-volunteer run.

Bring new hope to our friends and family around the world. Put your tax-deductible gift to work immediately by donating online or mail your donation to Rainbow World Fund, 4111 - 18th Street #5, San Francisco, CA 94114.