Dear friends
Growing up in Egypt was never easy. Since a very young age, I learned that I needed to hide who I really was in order to stay safe. But despite the fear, I couldn't stay silent forever.
After showing support for LGBT+ rights icon and lesbian activist Sarah Hegazy (who was arrested and tortured by Egyptian police and later died by suicide) on Facebook, I was constantly threatened with assault and even murder. I had no choice but to leave my hometown.
Eventually, I had to return and I was almost immediately detained by the police. They questioned me about my sexuality, my Facebook activity, and my support for Sarah Hegazy. Thankfully, Bedayaa stepped up to help me and even got me a lawyer who helped make sure I was released. I don't know what I would have done without their help.
I can only email you today because Bedayaa saved my life. But now they need help so they can continue this life-saving work – and that's why I'm here asking for your support.
Even though being LGBT+ isn't explicitly illegal in my country, the authorities use all sorts of legal loopholes and old laws to arrest us anyway. That's why your support is so critical – especially right now.
Having access to the type of services Bedayaa offers the community can be life-changing for LGBT+ people in Egypt. Bedayaa – and people like you are our only hope.
Thank you for going All Out,Layla*(she/ her)*I am using a pseudonym for safety reasons.
SOURCES:● LGBTQ rights in Egypt: Queer community battles crackdown – Deutsche Welle, March 30, 2023● LGBTQ+ dating app Grindr warns Egypt users of police-run accounts – Al Jazeera, March 25, 2023
All Out is a people-powered movement. Members from around the world make monthly donations to power campaigns just like this one. Whenever there's a major attack on LGBT+ people, this support is what allows us to jump into action instantly. Help fuel the fight and become an Equality Champion with a monthly donation today.
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