Considerations for Refugees

LGBTQIA+ people face discrimination as well as social and economic exclusion at exponential rates and are disproportionately subjected to violence.

LGBTQIA+ youth are at a higher risk of social isolation and depression, and are often less accepted by peers from various ethnic and religious backgrounds, especially those from conservative families.

Photo Credit: Lambda Legal

Resources for Asylum Seekers

There is a lack of awareness that sexual orientation and gender identity are viable grounds for asylum (UCLA Williiams Institute, 2022).

"Individuals seeking asylum in the U.S. must demonstrate a "well-founded fear of persecution" citing one of five factors: race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, according to Immigration Equality, which notes that being a part of the LGBTQ+ community is classified as a particular social group" (Sarnoff & Alfonseca, 2024).

How can libraries support LGBTQIA+ refugees?

First and foremost, libraries should create welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA+ refugees. The physical space of the library sends the first message of who is welcome in the library. According to the ALA, "exhibits and displays were identified by ALSC and ACM members during the forum as important contributors to making library...spaces welcoming for children and families of immigrants and refugee groups" (ALA, 2023).

The ALA suggests doing the following to make the library space more welcoming for immigrant and refugee families:

Decor: flags, art, and other pieces of decoration can provide a cultural connection for families to their home country.
Furniture: comfortable seats, that are clearly available for use help show this is a space to relax in.
Greetings: acknowledging people as they come in, giving friendly greetings, and having staff make other meaningful and culturally appropriate gestures can help welcome people.
Signage: graphics, rather than text, offer quick help and wayfinding regardless of language spoken.
Sound: silence can be alienating - background music, conversations, and children playing help tell families this is a space for everyone.
Surveillance: many immigrants may be fearful of governmental institutions; consider how security guards, police, cameras, and photo-id requirements might present barriers to service.

Some other ways libraries can build trust with LGBTQIA+ refugees include:

Offer relevant programming.
Prioritize partnerships with local community organizations that provide assistance to refugees/immigrants.
Provide access to materials in multiple languages. Maintain a diverse collection.

Report abuse