As of today, there have been several people who have managed to escape from Chechnya to St. Petersburg and Moscow. But the actual number of LGBTQ+ Chechens who remain in captivity is unknown, and kept in secret due to safety concerns.
For now, the LGBTQ+ activists in Russia have organized secret shelters for them, providing survivors with medical care, food, clothing, and housing. Activists are negotiating with several international organizations (such as RUSA LGBT) and several consulates regarding the rescue and resettlement of LGBTQ+ victims from Russia.
And this weekend, the activist group Voices 4 Chechnya will march to help bring protections and potential escape routes to those desiring asylum in the US due to persecution.
This Saturday, a non-violent direct action march will start at Stonewall Inn, the famous bar known for being a starting place for the LGBTQ rights movement, and end at Trump Tower.
Below is an exclusive video from organizers and activists on how you can get involved not in this day, but in helping LGBTQ folks in Chechnya who are desperately seeking support.
Help make sure LGBTQ+ stories are being told...
We can't rely on mainstream media to tell our stories. That's why we don't lock our articles behind a paywall. Will you support our mission with a contribution today?
Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated
Read More in Impact
The Latest on INTO
Subscribe to get a twice-weekly dose of queer news, updates, and insights from the INTO team.in Your Inbox