About us
Get a better understanding of what we do and how we operate.
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Our Goal
We want to help build a strong LGBTI+ network across Asia that brings communities together and leaves no one behind.
Our Focus
Mindful of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, we address four interrelated focus areas that currently challenge LGBTI+ communities in Asia.
1: Poverty and Economic exclusion
Across Asia, LGBTI+ persons are more vulnerable to poverty and economic exclusion because of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Their access to education and employment opportunities is limited because of stigma and discrimination in workplaces and educational institutions.
2: Mental health and well-being
LGBTI+ people in Asia – especially the young – are more likely to attempt self-harm than their straight peers. The stress of coming out, bullying in schools, violence, the disapproval of family members, and the discrimination in their communities negatively impact their mental health and wellbeing.
3: Ageing and the intergenerational gap
Many societies in Asia are rapidly aging. The widening intergenerational gap, both in general and within the LGBTI+ community, has resulted in the social isolation of LGBTIQ+ elderly and placed them at a unique intersection of social and economic vulnerability. These aging communities have restricted access to social services and protections.
4: Inclusion in humanitarian action
Asia is the world’s most disaster-prone region. Millions of people are affected by both natural disasters and conflict each year. LGBTI+ persons are disproportionately impacted by these humanitarian events. These communities are not included during disaster risk reduction, response, and recovery.
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Our Journey
This is our EAF timeline! Let’s find out how we became who we are today.
January 2019
The Beginnings
The Foundation’s early days consisted of meetings with stakeholders, community leaders, and donors, as well as the development of our strategic framework and the setting up of our digital assets.
February 2019
February 2019
The Search
The search begins for a board of directors, regional advisors, and peer mentors.
April 2019
April 2019
The Foundation
Our incorporation is approved! The Foundation is set in Amsterdam, and fundraising efforts begin. Equal AF finds its fiscal host, and operations begin in Bangkok.
May 2019
May 2019
The Launch
Equal AF begins its work on intergenerational justice, and EAF is launched during IDAHOT at Canadian Ambassador’s residence.
June 2019
June 2019
The Panel
Equal AF organises panel on LGBTI+ asylum seekers at the Australian Embassy to kick off Pride week in Bangkok.
July 2019
July 2019
The Pilot Project
The Foundation launches its pilot project on LGBTI+ intergenerational work in Chiang Mai and Bangkok supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives
August 2019
August 2019
The Consultations
Equal AF organises the first ever regional expert consultation on LGBTI+ ageing and intergenerational justice the Canadian Embassy in Seoul during ILGA Asia 2019
September 2019
September 2019
The Survey
Equal AF launches the Rainbow Ageing Survey in Asia (RASA) a multilingual regional survey on LGBTI+ ageing.
Fun Fact!
Our logo is inspired by the pink triangle, a reclaimed symbol of gay pride that incorporates two horizontal bars symbolizing equality.
Equal Asia Foundation 