Dear friends–
The latest wave of anti-LGBT+ attacks in Chechnya is even worse than we thought.
At least 40 people have been arrested under "suspicion" of being LGBT+ since the beginning of December. They're humiliated and beaten. At least 2 people have been murdered.
Now, we've learned from one survivor that the torture has escalated – detainees are being raped with electric shock sticks by law enforcement officers. They're being starved and given only mop water to drink.
My organization – the Russian LGBT Network – is partnering with All Out to fund the emergency evacuation of LGBT+ people in Chechnya and we urgently need your help.
Those who manage to avoid arrest continue to face terrifying persecution. Chechen officials have repeatedly encouraged people to commit "honour killings" against their LGBT+ family members.
People who are imprisoned are often tortured until they "out" other LGBT+ people, who are then arrested and tortured themselves.
What is happening in Chechnya is an unprecedented attack on LGBT+ lives. This shouldn't be happening.
My colleagues and I have been working day and night for the safety of these people. More and more requests for help have been coming through our helpline every day. Frankly, I'm terrified. But I'm not going to give up.
With the help of All Out members, we evacuated 150 people in danger of persecution during Chechnya's 2017 anti-LGBT+ purge. Our team can complete another emergency evacuation quickly. We just need the funding to do it.
In solidarity,
Igor Kochetkov
Russia LGBT Network
P.S. If you need to contact the Russian LGBT Network for help, or know someone who does, our emergency helpline can be reached at 8-800-555-7374 orkavkaz@lgbtnet.org.
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