Help LGBTIQ Human Rights Defenders Worldwide

Outright International, has made significant strides in advancing LGBTIQ human rights globally. With your unwavering support, we have achieved numerous milestones, positively impacting LGBTIQ communities worldwide. Read below to see the key areas of our work and the transformative results accomplished over the past year:

LBQ Connect Program

Through the LBQ Connect program, Outright has empowered 300 participants from 91 countries with training, mentorship, research, advocacy, and financial support. This global feminist initiative has strengthened LBQ activism and communities, enabling activists to tackle challenges and advocate for LGBTIQ rights effectively.

United Nations Engagement

Outright has strengthened its presence at the United Nations, where we serve as Secretariat to the 42-member states LGBTI Core Group. Our UN Advocacy Week is an initiative that elevates the voices of global human rights defenders by bringing 24 LGBTIQ activists from 19 countries to the UN in May, leading to tangible policy legislative changes, and amplifying the voices of LGBTIQ activists. Some key outcomes this year include the UN’s historic passing of an Intersex Resolution – the first-ever resolution specifically addressing discrimination, violence, and harmful practices against persons with innate variations in sex characteristics.

OutSummit 2023

Outright’s 9th annual OutSummit brought together activists, allies, and leaders from over 95 countries. The event emphasized the urgent need to enhance the capacity of LGBTIQ communities in light of the global challenges to democracy and human rights. The summit provided a platform for sharing powerful insights and strategies for advancing LGBTIQ rights.

Expansion of Outright Programs

Outright has expanded its team to over 60 staff members across 19 countries. This growth has enhanced our capacity in advocacy, research, grantmaking, and communications, allowing us to support LGBTIQ activists and organizations more effectively. We also launched a new Intersex Program. 

Grantmaking Program

Outright provides a range of support to small LGBTIQ organizations worldwide that make these groups more resilient, better able to attract and absorb funding, perform fiscal and grants management, and achieve programmatic objectives. In addition to training and technical support, we provide practice-based support, working hand-in-hand with partners to carry out responsibilities and developing more substantial institutional infrastructure through collaboration. Outright has resourced LGBTIQ groups worldwide through training, technical assistance and grant-making. Since 2020, we have re-granted millions of dollars to more than 500 LGBTIQ organizations, including new and emerging groups, around the world.

Inclusive Democracy and Empowerment

The Global LGBTQI+ Inclusive Democracy and Empowerment (GLIDE) consortium, led by Outright, addresses democratic backsliding and attacks on human rights. By supporting pilot projects and funding initiatives in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, we empower LGBTIQ communities to engage in political and public life.

Inclusive Economies Initiative

Outright’s initiative in Asia and Latin America aims to tackle economic and employment challenges faced by LGBTIQ individuals. Through job skilling, career coaching, and job placement services, we ensure income stability and alleviate poverty within LGBTIQ communities.

Data Collection & Documenting Movement Trends

Outright International remains committed to developing a global evidence base that highlights the diverse experiences and challenges of LGBTIQ communities. Over the past year, we've released several impactful reports, which have played a crucial role in advocating for policy changes and increasing awareness. Here's a brief overview of some of our recent publications:

“Our Lives, Our Stories: LGBTI Seniors in Nepal" - This report brings to light the narratives of 10 LGBTI elders in Nepal, detailing the discrimination and lack of support they face. It emphasizes the necessity for inclusive policies and support systems for aging LGBTIQ individuals.

“Golden Rainbow: Stories of Pain, Grit, Duty, and Love of Filipino Older LGBT People" - In the Philippines, older LGBT individuals share their lifelong struggles, underscoring the urgent need for legal protections and social acceptance.

“Freedom of Assembly and Association: The Global State of LGBTIQ Organizing" - This comprehensive analysis assesses the state of LGBTIQ organizing worldwide, exploring the progress.

Conclusion

Outright International’s achievements over the past year have only been made possible by the generous support of our donors. Your contributions have empowered LGBTIQ activists, influenced policy changes, and strengthened global movements for LGBTIQ rights. Together, we continue to strive for a world where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can live with dignity and equality.