![NDI's Equal Voices Advisory Council](https://www.ndi.org/sites/default/files/styles/hero_images/public/image1%20%285%29.jpeg?itok=L5LxkVVW)
LGBTI people in many places around the world live in fear for their lives because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Many more are denied basic rights by their governments. Equal Voices for Democracy is an initiative that expands LGBTI participation in political life so their voices are heard and their rights and dignity are secured. In coordination with NDI field offices, the Equal Voices Advisory Council provides resources for activists, local campaigns and training for tomorrow’s LGBTI leaders. Equal Voices supports organizations whose goal is to mobilize local forces for democracy and to advance LGBTI inclusion so that more individuals participate in movement building and electoral politics.
The "Be Counted" Campaign
The Equal Voices Advisory Council is introducing a campaign in select international NDI field locations to expand engagement of LGBTI communities in local political institutions. The “Be Counted” message encourages LGBTI people and their allies to stand up so their voices are heard, their votes are counted and their participation in the democratic process makes a substantial difference.
Since the Council’s inception in 2017 we have met with LGBTI activists and organizers, government officials, politicians and social welfare and security representatives in Colombia, Nicaragua and Serbia. These local partners are advocating for issues that include anti-discrimination laws, police protection for Pride events, the option to change one’s gender on government identification documents, hate crimes legislation, civil partnership and greater inclusion of women, transgender, indigenous and other multiply marginalized groups in LGBTI movements.
Please help Equal Voices continue this work in 2019 and beyond. It’s time for you to “be counted” as well!
Support Equal Voices