Dear John,

The U.S. election results have raised deep concerns for many of us who care about fundamental human rights, freedoms, and democratic norms for LGBTIQ people and everyone else around the world.

As Outright International unites with you, our global community, we know that this outcome impacts not only the U.S. but also the global momentum toward justice and equality. Nationalism, authoritarianism, white supremacy, xenophobia, anti-queer, and anti-transness have been on stark display throughout the election campaign. Such narratives risk eroding years of progress and scapegoat marginalized communities. Resulting policies could deny gender recognition, defund LGBTIQ-supportive programs internationally, and be a threat to international cooperation and multilateralism. 

But moments like this also reveal the strength of our global solidarity. The spirit of connection that fuels our shared movements is needed now more than ever. From Argentina to Poland, Uganda to Ukraine, LGBTIQ communities are rising to this challenge. Together, we can and must resist discriminatory forces and protect and continue to advance the progress made. This isn’t just about policies—it’s about our lives and those of our global community.

At Outright, we are prepared. We were founded in 1990, at a time when our rights were barely recognized anywhere. While the U.S. election result represents a significant setback, we know we cannot allow it to defeat us. We’ve been tracking these shifts and supporting activists and movements facing the direct impact of these policies. Our community is resilient, and through united action, we can counter these threats with strength and compassion. We are here to amplify voices, foster connections, propel liberation, and push back against divisive rhetoric.

How You Can Help:

• Stay Informed: Equip yourself with knowledge about the policies and trends affecting LGBTIQ communities worldwide. Awareness is a powerful tool.
• Amplify: Use your platform, however small or large, to amplify the stories and needs of LGBTIQ communities. Share, post, and connect.
• Support Local and Global Activism: Engage with organizations actively working to support LGBTIQ people in your region and beyond.

Thank you for standing with us in solidarity and resilience. In moments like this, I think of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to run for U.S. President, who said she ran “Because I am in love with the America that does not yet exist.” That was over 50 years ago.

Today, I am especially grateful to serve as Outright’s executive director. This role allows me, like so many of us, to feel the weight of disappointment but also the drive to take action for a world that does not yet exist—a world where everyone, everywhere, is free to live authentically, safely, and proudly. Together, let’s continue to work toward that future.
 

With gratitude and solidarity,

Maria Sjödin [they/she]
Executive Director