 | |
| Abbreviation | IRQR |
|---|---|
| Formation | 2008 |
| Founder | Arsham Parsi |
| Focus | Advocacy work for LGBT rights in Iran |
| Location | |
Area served |  Turkey |
| Method | Networking, campaigning, advocacy, outreach, community media, TV and radio |
Key people | Arsham Parsi (head), Stuart Bustard, Robert Sabuda, Borga Dorter, Tad Munning, Sam Riazi |
Revenue | Donation |
| Employees | 1 Full time and 1 Part time |
Volunteers | 9 |
| Website | irqr.net |
The International Railroad for Queer Refugees (IRQR), formerly known as the Iranian Railroad for Queer Refugees, is an advocacy group for LGBT rights in Iran. Founded and led by Arsham Parsi, the organization assists Iranian LGBT individuals seeking safe refuge both inside and outside of Iran.[1]
The IRQR is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada,[2] where it provides assistance with asylum applications, housing, and financial aid. It also advocates to governments on behalf of Iranian LGBT individuals facing deportation to Iran, where homosexuality is a criminal offense punishable by death.[3]
The organization's name was inspired by the Underground Railroad, which helped African Americans escape slavery in the 19th century.[4]
- ^ Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (May 31, 2019). "Meet five LGBTQ+ People Making a Difference".
- ^ Federal Corporation Information. "Corporation Document". Retrieved 2009-11-17.
- ^ Perra, Meri (2010-12-21). "Iranian railroad assists queers acclimatize to Toronto". The Toronto Observer. Retrieved 2024-11-17.
- ^ International Railroad for Queer Refugees. "About". IRQR. Retrieved 2024-11-17.