Rainbow Street's Response to the Covid-19 Pandemic

A message from Rainbow Street’s Executive Director Kevin Steen

The Covid-19 pandemic is an extraordinary crisis of global proportions. Like all disasters, it exposes the disparities that already plague our societies. The most fortunate remain insulated from this catastrophe, while the world’s marginalized bear the brunt of its consequences.

Few groups are as precariously placed as Rainbow Street’s clients: vulnerable LGBTQ people in the Middle East and North Africa. And Rainbow Street itself--a marginalized organization of radical queer and trans activists--must find creative ways to support our clients, community partners, and one another. 

Here’s how the crisis affects our clients

Isolation: For trauma survivors, feelings of isolation can be deadly, especially when access to mental health services are dramatically reduced. 

Delayed travel: Many clients are awaiting resettlement to a permanent new home in a safer country. With travel suspended worldwide, they must wait even longer in agonizing uncertainty. 

Domestic violence: For those of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, home can be a dangerous place. With no exit strategy, the risk of violence is increased.

Chronic health conditions: Some clients require consistent medical care. As a queer, trans, or nonbinary person, it can be difficult accessing these service in the best of times.

Job insecurity: LGBTQ people face many barriers to regular employment. Curfews and lockdowns eliminate many of the available work opportunities. 

Here’s what we’re doing 

We’re checking in. First and foremost, we’re pausing to simply ask how our current and former shelter clients are doing. By understanding their needs, we learn how we can help.

We’re keeping shelter a priority. Uncertainty is at its highest, and we suspect domestic violence is on the rise. Everyone deserves a safe place to be with food and necessities. Even while our operations are hindered, we’re finding creative ways to keep people in safe homes during the duration of this pandemic.

We’re keeping isolation at bay. We’ve rolled out a new program called Listening Ears that pairs local LGBTQ volunteers with Rainbow Street Shelter clients for weekly phone calls. These aren’t healthcare workers, case managers, or human rights defenders. They’re friendly voices to remind clients that they’re not alone.

We’re keeping up with rapid new developments. Local and international travel is still restricted. Some protection services are unavailable. New services are just emerging. Amid the changes, we’re working with our community partners to make all the available services as accessible as possible to the LGBTQ population.

We’re connecting in new ways. We’re engaging our regional network of volunteer activists to kick off new campaigns on Rainbow Street’s social media channels. The goal is to communicate a simple message: Queers in quarantine are not alone.

And importantly, we must take care of ourselves

The wellness of Rainbow Street’s dedicated staff and volunteers are a top priority. I’m personally encouraging everyone to heed all local public health recommendations and WHO guidelines. We’re getting personal protective equipment to our frontline workers. I’m advising everyone to check in with themselves and do what’s necessary to maintain wellness and balance: taking breaks, embracing routine, staying physically active, asking for help, and pacing ourselves for the long haul. This is a marathon, not a sprint.

Rainbow Street is committed to our clients’ needs during this trying time. Your support makes that possible. Join us by making your gift today. Thank you!