Rainbow Railroad is a global not-for-profit organization that helps at-risk LGBTQI+ people get to safety worldwide. Based in the United States and Canada, we’re an organization that helps LGBTQI+ people facing persecution based on their sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics. In a time when there are more displaced people than ever, LGBTQI+ people are uniquely vulnerable due to systemic, state-enabled homophobia and transphobia. These factors either displace them in their own country or prevent them from escaping harm. As a result of Rainbow Railroad, more LGBTQI+ individuals can access lives free from persecution, and ultimately, we envision a world where LGBTQI+ people can live lives of their choosing, free from persecution.
Since our founding, we’ve helped over 19,000 LGBTQI+ individuals find safety through emergency relocation, crisis response, cash assistance, and other forms of assistance.
To learn more about how we work, visit our Programs Page.
In more than 60 countries around the world, same-sex intimacy is criminalized. Globally, LGBTQI+ face persecution and violence simply because of who they are and who they love.
We advocate for the rights of LGBTQI+ people who have been forcibly displaced, building awareness by queering the system. Our story has received international media attention.
Explore media coverage about our work.
Rainbow Railroad is both a registered 501(c)(3) in the USA & a registered Canadian charity.
You can support Rainbow Railroad’s vital work by donating today.