Desi Rainbow Parents and Allies

We offer two support programs, peer support groups and individual saathi peer support. We ran 2 support groups each month, one serving 200 lgbtqia+ community members and one serving 154 Parents and family members. Additionally, we ran 4 father groups with a total of 28 groups in 2023. We received and responded to 60 requests for one on one support from a saathi peer support volunteer. We were able to promote saathi at two conferences in february 2023 as part of a panel presentation at the south asian youth initiative conference at yale and in a workshop at the creating change conference. Group facilitators receive training in mental health and peer support training and support volunteers are trained to offer individualized peer support to community members in need. 95% or more of those surveyed agree or strongly agree that it was helpful to talk to others who understand their situation, and would recommend the support to a friend.

Core aspect of our mission is to educate the south asian community about the breadth and diversity of the south asian lgbtqia+ experience and show lgbtqia+ youth, their Parents, families and community that lgbtqia+ people can live fulfilling lives, build strong relationships, have and raise children and build meaningful careers. We presented on mental health needs for youth as well as hosted educational sessions on advocacy for Parents and Allies. Workshops also included breaking the silence, featuring personal story sharing, and education around gender affirming care for children. Training has also extended to board members, staff and volunteers.

We brought 500 lgbtqia+ people and allied family members together to meet, gain support and celebrate community in atlanta, bay area, los angeles, new jersey, chicago and raleigh/durham nc. Each event featured community building activities, discussions on local advocacy and local lgbtqia+ performers. We also began a successful campaign titled pyar is pyar (love is love) during february 2023 in partnership with corporate leaders, celebrities, artists and community activists. Other community building and allyship events included ramadan reflections for queer and trans muslims, queer arts campaign, and hosted a series of screenings of the award winning lgbtqia+ centered pakistani film joyland. We have partnered with other organizations to uplift the queer and trans community members and to communicate the message of inclusion to further our mission.