How our work leads to change
1The problem
LGBTQ+ asylum seekers arrive without a community, in a system that is hard to navigate.
- Laws at home make being LGBTQ+ dangerous.
- Many arrive without English, money or friends.
- Asylum takes years.
2What we do
We bring people together and share what we know.
- Weekly events and an online community.
- English practice with volunteers, support groups, resource guides.
- Brighton Beach Pride and advocacy.
3What changes
Newcomers find community and start building a life here.
- They know where to go for help.
- They apply for asylum, insurance and work permits.
- Many start helping others.
4Our goal
Cultural integration and social cohesion.
- LGBTQ+ immigrants live safely and openly as New Yorkers.
- Immigrant communities become more accepting.
Our assumptions
Peers are trusted
People trust help that comes from others who share their language and experience.
Community comes first
Once people feel part of a community, it is easier to take the next step, like seeing a lawyer or a doctor.
Visibility changes minds
Being seen in the diaspora, at Brighton Beach Pride and beyond, makes it more accepting over time.
From newcomer to board member
Enver Latifzade marched at NYC Pride in 2014 to speak up for LGBTQ+ people in Uzbekistan. Today he serves on QARAVAN’s board and helps shape our strategy.
2025 in numbers
485
people in our core programs, FY2025
~100
people in Rainbow Connections, FY2025
68
letters of support for asylum cases
420+
members in our community chat