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Uganda’s LGBTQIA+ population faces some of the worst and most persistent persecution of any group in the world. Recent legislation has effectively criminalized homosexuality in Uganda and can carry a death sentence. Queer Ugandans are beaten, stoned, chased from their homes, and abused by the very police who are tasked with their “protection.” Those who are able to seek refuge in neighboring countries continue to survive physical attacks, threats, sexual harassment and denial of food and access to fresh water—even within formal refugee camps.
Recognizing the extraordinary need to support courageous Ugandan human rights defenders, activists, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community with trauma-informed case management and asylum referrals, Task Force Nyx launched a Ugandan initiative in Spring 2023. We have multiple asylum referrals in-process and are partnering with international and local grassroots NGOs in Uganda and Kenya to support this exceptionally resilient and deserving community.
Before coming to Canada, Leila lived in Kakuma refugee camp, where life was not easy. As a refugee woman and single mother, she faced many challenges but never gave up her dreams and hope for a better future for herself and her children.
“I was able to resettle in Canada and begin a new chapter in my life. Today, I am happy to be pursuing women’s studies in college, where I continue learning about women’s rights, equality, and social justice. My experiences have inspired me to continue doing activism and speaking up for people I left behind in Africa, especially women, refugees, and marginalised communities. I want to use my education, experiences, and voice to create awareness and bring positive change.”
“My experiences have inspired me to continue doing activism and speaking up for people I left behind in Africa, especially women, refugees, and marginalised communities. I want to use my education, experiences, and voice to create awareness and bring positive change.”
Leila
Before coming to Canada, Fahad had lived in the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya since 2020, where life was uncertain every day, and for a little over 5 years, he had to survive with very little, limited food, and being prosecuted in various ways at times, not limited to being surrounded by hostile communities.
In August 2023, he got in touch with TaskForce, where he met Sarah (our co-founder) who, in his words, “gave me and many of my comrades resilience and the importance of hope even when life feels unfair.”
“Through Task Force, my journey of coming to Canada was paved, and this step changed my perspective completely. Despite escaping from the chaos of anti-homosexuality attacks, I moved from surviving to finally having the chance to dream about a future. Simple things like safety, education, and opportunities became things I no longer took for granted. The journey shaped me into someone who values hard work, kindness, and never giving up.
Since he arrived in Canada, Fahad has been doing volunteer work with various Toronto city events, which has allowed him to gain experience and meet people from different backgrounds, gain valuable experience, and develop confidence in himself. This has allowed him to give back to and be part of the community that has welcomed and helped him grow freely both personally and professionally.
He recalls that police at Kakuma would demolish pride celebration set-ups, including other LGBTIQ celebrations they tried to hold, and even arrest the event planners.
“Attending the pride parade here was truly an amazing feeling. Over 2 million people in participants and spectators was a completely lovely shock to me, and being able to celebrate this freely gave me a feeling of deep validation and a sense of belonging.”
“If my story can change someone’s life, I hope it reminds them that where you start does not decide where you end up. Even difficult beginnings can create strong people with powerful futures.”
Fahad