Syrian LGBTQIA+ individuals face significant challenges due to systemic oppression from society, culture, and legal frameworks. These challenges are worsened by the inability to openly identify as LGBTQIA+ for fear of severe consequences and physical harm. As a result, it becomes extremely difficult to come together as a community to support and defend their rights.
This lack of community has further deepened the misunderstanding of LGBTQIA+ issues both within the general Syrian population, the diaspora, and even among isolated LGBTQIA+ individuals, service providers, and public institutions. Advocacy for Syrian LGBTQIA+ rights has largely been carried out through individual activism, which creates vulnerability in defending human rights. Building a unified front is essential to achieving equal rights for all.
By creating a safe and secure platform, GEM aims to bring Syrian LGBTQIA+ individuals together to foster the growth of the community. Recognizing the existence of this community is vital not only for systemic change but also for empowering those most affected by these issues to take control of their own advocacy.
This program offers Syrian LGBTQIA+ individuals the opportunity to become members of GEM. It will facilitate their participation in decision-making processes, provide access to resources, and engage them in advocacy and activism efforts.
GEM is licensed organization in Winnipeg MB/Canada