Support queer people by gathering your people!

You do not need to run a gala to make a difference. A dinner with friends, a queer party, a birthday, a screening, a gig, a book club, a pub quiz, or something completely your own can help keep free legal, psychological, and career support available for queer people in Russia and across Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia.

ComingOut | Support queer people by gathering your people

How it works

It can be much simpler than you imagine

  1. Choose an idea and a date. Pick something you would enjoy hosting, and give yourself enough time to prepare without rushing.
  2. Set up a page for your event — if you want to. Choose one of the options below; you can either set it up by yourself in 5-15 minutes or speak with us and make this page together. 
  3. Invite your people. A personal invitation works best. Use your own words: why does this matter to you, and why are you asking them to join?
  4. Host the event. Keep it enjoyable! After all, you are creating a moment of community as well as raising funds.
  5. Share what happened. If it is safe and you are comfortable, send us a photo or a note afterwards. It might inspire someone else to organise the next event.

Although we cannot always be physically present, we will make sure you have what you need to make the event yours. Reach out anytime at [email protected]

What your event supports

Every contribution raised through your event helps keep our work free and accessible for people who need it.
Legal support for people facing discrimination, threats, repression, family conflict, work-related issues, or difficult decisions.
Psychological support for people living with fear, isolation, burnout, violence, or the daily pressure of having to hide.
Career support for people trying to find work where they are not discriminated, change careers, or regain stability in hostile circumstances.
Advocacy and research that document what is happening and make it harder for the world to look away.
Your event makes sure that, when someone reaches out, there is a person on the other end who can help.

A note on fundraising goals

You do not need to raise a huge amount for it to matter. Small events add up — and they introduce ComingOut to people who may later become regular supporters, partners, or organisers themselves. Whether it is $50 or $500, it is a real contribution to the community.

Copy hosts can borrow

“I’m hosting this event to support queer people in Russia and across the region, where many people are facing increasing pressure, discrimination, and isolation. Coming Out provides free legal, psychological, and career support — and every donation helps keep that support available.”

“I believe human rights do not stop at borders. This is a small way to gather people I care about and help make sure queer people who need support can find it.”

“Right now, it’s dangerous to be openly queer in Russia and around the region. Many people are forced to hide, flee, or live in fear. I’m raising funds for an organization that provides legal help, psychological support, and much more to the community.”

Safety note

Supporting ComingOut can create risks for people who expect to travel to Russia or Belarus. You do not have to use your full name, show your face, or make your connection to us public. Contact us first if you would like to organise something discreetly or talk through a safer way to take part.