Help THE Moroccan Earthquake Survivors

We Are One! Unity is essential to our survival, our healing, and our humanity. Please be part of the LGBTQ+ community’s response to the devastating earthquake in Morocco.

On 8 September 2023, a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck the Marrakesh-Safi region of Morocco. The earthquake’s epicenter was located southwest of Marrakesh. Over 2,122 people have been killed and 2,400 were injured, at least 1400 of the injured are critically hurt. In older parts of Marrakesh and portions of the city walls collapsed, leaving families trapped beneath debris. Many of the building are centuries old and very very unstable. Thousands have lost their homes. 

We are focusing our aid to help members of the LGBTQ+ community that have been impacted by the earthquake. The LGBTQ+ community is heavily discriminated against leaving it particularly vulnerable when an emergency occurs.

To be LGBTQ+ in Morocco: Both male and female same-sex sexual activity are illegal in Morocco. The LGBTQ+ community faces many hardships in this country, as it has limited legal rights. Police disproportionately target LGBTQ+ people. Public opinion towards the LGBTQ+ community generally negative, in alignment with attitudes about LGBTQ+ rights in much of the Muslim world. 

The country has a male-dominated culture, a patriarchal society with traditional gender roles. Same-sex activity can be punished with anything from three to five years' imprisonment and and fines. When one is arrested in Morocco for a suspected homosexual act, their name is publicized, thus outing the individual before a trial takes place. 

How you can help

Please be part of the LGBTQ+ community's response by making a donation to Rainbow World Fund’s Morocco Earthquake Fund. Your contributions will provide much-needed clean water, food, medical supplies, and shelter.

Please donate today! 100% of your donation will fund these life saving actions. Specify “Morocco” when you donate online or or when sending a check to RWF, 4111 18th Street, San Francisco, CA 94114.