Viviana Santibanez: Championing LGBTQ+ and Spanish-Speaking Refugees in Canada

Step into the inspiring journey of Viviana Santibanez, a dedicated activist, committee leader, and founder of a non-profit charity that supports LGBTQ+ and Spanish-speaking refugees in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Viviana has been advocating for marginalized communities for over 15 years, starting her activism in high school in Texas. Her personal experiences as a trans woman, immigrant, and refugee motivated her to address the lack of resources and representation for Spanish-speaking refugees.

Viviana moved to Canada seeking safety during the Trump administration but found there were very few resources for Spanish-speaking refugees. She began gathering information from various organizations, translating it, and sharing it with others in her community. This grassroots effort led to the creation of the first and only Spanish-speaking support charity for LGBTQ+ refugees from Latin America in Canada.

Viviana's charity has been a lifeline for many, providing crucial information and support, from understanding the refugee application process to connecting individuals with legal resources. Despite bureaucratic challenges, Viviana's dedication has built a robust network to help these vulnerable communities. The video also explores the distinct struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Latin America, where societal acceptance lags behind legal protections, leading many to flee for their safety.

Viviana discusses how stigma, discrimination, and lack of proper healthcare force many individuals to seek refuge in other countries, often leaving behind their careers and families. In Canada, Viviana herself faced initial challenges accessing support, revealing the gaps in services for newcomers. Through her activism, Viviana continues to shine a light on the importance of tailored support systems for refugees and immigrants, ensuring they have the necessary resources for a better life.

Join us in this powerful narrative of resilience and advocacy for human rights. Visit www.voicesinexile.ca for more information and support.