# How our work leads to change

Source: https://www.qaravan.org/change/

*About twenty people on picnic blankets at a QARAVAN picnic, 2025*

1. 1 The 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.
2. 2 What 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.
3. 3 What 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.
4. 4 Our 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.

[Read his profile](https://www.wes.org/fund/insight/empowered-to-lead-meet-enver-latifzade-lgbtq-refugee-and-community-leader/)

## 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