#DearMrTrump: International LGBT Activists Reach Out To The President

“No country is great without offering the opportunity to every single person to be who they are without fear.”

From: NewNowNext

 One of the greatest legacies of President Obama’s administration is the work done on behalf of the global LGBT community. As we were preparing for Donald Trump’s inauguration today, many international activists are understandably concerned that work continues.

We spoke with several advocates last month at OutRight’s Advocacy Week, a gathering of dozens of LGBT activists and NGOs at the United Nations, about what they would say to the President-elect. On social media, we’re sharing their answers—along with portraits from photographer Levi Jackman Foster.

 Georges Azzi

Co-founder of Helem, a Lebanese non-profit working to improve the legal and social status of LGBT people; Director of the Arab Foundation for Freedoms and Equality. 

“No country is great without human rights, and without offering the opportunity for every single person to be who they are without fear.”

 Rosanna Flamer-Caldera

LGBT rights activist based in Sri Lanka, former co-secretary general of ILGA.

“#DearMrTrump, at the end of the day, we are all human. Love is universal, so embrace it.”

 Paisarn Likhitpreechakul

Leading gay rights defender, fought successfully to stop the government of Thailand from labeling trans people as “suffering from permanent psychosis.”

“#DearMrTrump, please treat everyone with decency and respect.”

 Rashima Kwatra

Communications director for OutRight International, worked with the government of Thailand on a draft of a civil-union bill.

“In times of challenge, communities find strength and solidarity. We are resilient and can never be broken—not by you, not by anyone.”

 Sushant Naidu

Writer, poet and LGBT advocate raised in India and Kuwait.

“It is now more important than ever to support LGBTI rights around the world and help decriminalize LGBTI existences and further mandates that support curbing violence against sexual orientation and gender identities. See the world through eyes of inclusivity.”

Amir Ashour

Founder of IraQueer, the first LGBT organization in Iraq.

“#DearMrTrump, the global LGBT+ community is growing in power. We represent a valuable source, and we expect you to keep that in mind before you make any reforms.”

Do you have something to say to the President-elect? Use #DearMrTrump on social media to have your voice heard. We’ll be sharing more messages in the days to come.