Help American LGBTQ Victims of Violence Overseas

When Sam went to Lebanon earlier this year to conduct research on the Syrian refugee crisis. He knew that being gay was not criminalized, but there is a code in their laws that prohibits “sexual intercourse contrary to the order of nature,” and is often used to prosecute LGBT people.

While he was working he met a man and they began dating and moved in together to save money on rent. Just two months into their relationship his partner began becoming moody and jealous. When he became physically violent Sam tried to end it. His partner threatened to "out" them both in Lebanon and together they would suffer the consequences of being gay. Sam convinced his partner he didn't mean it and called us.

We safety planned with Sam and helped him come up with a safe exit plan. Sam pretended to not be feeling well. His partner went to work, Sam went to the airport and flew home.

We truly appreciate your donations that make it possible to help people in the LGBTQ community abroad! The AODVC Team

Jason called us after he experienced a sexual assault in Costa Rica. Jason was teaching English in Coast Rica. After a class, one of the men asked for private tutoring. Jason invited the man to his apartment for coffee and a tutoring lesson. Jason thinks the man put something in his coffee. He didn't remember anything from the time he started tutoring until he woke up in excrutiating pain in his bed.

We were able to get Jason to a hospital and pay for his medical treatment and prophylactics. Jason called the police and made a police report. We put Jason up in a hotel for a couple of nights since he didn't feel safe going back to his apartment.

Jason has a long journey ahead. Because of donations like yours he is safe and getting the help he needs.

Thank you for caring about people in the LGBTQ community who have been victimized abroad.

Robin was living with her same sex partner in the UAE. As her partner became more abusive, Robin told her that she wanted to end the relationship. Her partner threatened to go to the authorities and out her as being gay even if it meant that both of them would go to prison.The UAE is an Islamic country. Robin was terrified.

Robin called the international hotline. Her partner controlled all of their money and she didn't want to ask her family for money. They don't know she is gay.

We were able to get an airline ticket for Robin to come back home to the USA. She is doing really good. She is sad that her relationship is over but she is a resilient young woman and is moving forward.

Your donations to help LGBTQ victims of violence overseas are lifesaving! Thank you so much! The AODVC Team