Yesterday, members of African Rainbow Family community and team gathered at the stunning 1901 Ballroom at the Andaz Hotel London for the Human Rights Forum 2026.
Hosted by Pride in London, the forum brought together activists, policy-makers, and community leaders to discuss the pressing issues facing LGBTIQ+ communities today. For ARF, it was a vital opportunity to bring the lived realities of people seeking asylum directly to the forefront of the conversation.
Shifting Perspectives: Aisha Rehman on Advocacy
Our Refugee Advocacy Lead, Aisha Rehman, took to the stage to speak on behalf of ARF. Aisha highlighted the ongoing systemic barriers, hostile environments, and unique challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ people seeking asylum who are fleeing persecution.
Her address was a powerful reminder that human rights advocacy must be intersectional, active, and unwavering.
Power in Lived Experience: Sibling Nazir Shares Their Story
While policy and systemic advocacy are crucial, the true heart of our movement lies in our community.
We are incredibly proud of and grateful to our sibling, Nazir, who stood up and generously shared their personal journey and lived experiences with the room. Speaking truth to power takes immense courage. Nazir’s words grounded the room, reminding every attendee exactly why we do this work and why safe, supportive spaces are so urgently needed.
“Having our siblings share their own stories in these spaces isn’t just important—it is revolutionary. It shifts the narrative from statistics to human lives.”
Moving Forward Together
The forum was a beautiful day of collaboration, connections, and reflection (made even warmer by the wonderful hospitality of the Andaz Hotel team and Madame F wine). But the conversations started yesterday cannot end there.
We leave the forum re-energized and ready to keep pushing for policy changes, safer communities, and absolute dignity for all LGBTIQ+ individuals who are navigating the system as people seeking asylum.
With Heartfelt Thanks
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to Pride in London for organising such a vital and beautifully coordinated event.
We also want to thank Lady Phyll for her incredibly powerful and inspiring keynote speech, which set a transformative tone for the entire day and reminded us of the strength we hold when we stand together.
Thank you to everyone who listened, supported, and stood in solidarity with us yesterday.
