In coastal regions and across the nation, the GSM community faces ongoing challenges, including discrimination, violence, and social exclusion. Religious leaders and essential service providers (ESPs) play a crucial role as allies in creating safe spaces, promoting inclusivity, and advocating for the rights of LGBTIQ individuals. However, their commitment to support often puts them at risk, as they may encounter threats to their own safety due to the sensitive nature of these issues.

To address these challenges, a comprehensive three-day Safety and Security Training is set to take place from October 22 to 24, 2024. This initiative aims to equip religious leaders and ESPs with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively mitigate security risks while continuing their vital advocacy work for the LGBTIQ community.

Despite advancements in human rights advocacy, those who openly support the GSM community still face backlash and potential violence, particularly from conservative factions. Many allies lack the preparedness needed to protect themselves and their communities from potential attacks, both online and offline. The stress of operating under constant threat can also impact their mental health, hindering their ability to provide consistent support. This training seeks to empower these allies to navigate these challenges safely and effectively.

The primary objectives of the Safety and Security Training include enhancing personal and community safety by equipping participants with risk assessment, conflict de-escalation techniques, and crisis management skills. Additionally, the training will focus on mitigating the impact of hate-based attacks and strengthening psychological resilience to cope with social pressures and personal threats. A key component will be fostering collaboration among religious leaders, ESPs, and civil society organizations to establish safety protocols and emergency response strategies.

The training will target two main groups: religious leaders from diverse faith backgrounds who promote inclusivity and social justice, and ESPs, including healthcare providers and law enforcement officers, who deliver critical services to the GSM community. A total of 30 participants are expected to take part.

The training content will cover essential topics over the three days. The first day will focus on understanding security risks and threats, including identifying potential risks and utilizing risk assessment tools. The second day will address safety protocols and response strategies, emphasizing personal safety techniques and emergency response planning. The final day will concentrate on psychological resilience and the importance of support networks, offering resources for managing stress and trauma associated with advocacy work.

Utilizing a participatory approach, the training will feature interactive workshops, real-life case studies, and role-playing exercises. Participants will engage in peer-to-peer learning, sharing insights and best practices from their experiences.

At the conclusion of the training, participants will possess the skills to assess and respond to security risks effectively. They will be better equipped to manage threats to their safety and that of those they support, while gaining access to networks and resources for collaborative security measures. Enhanced psychological resilience will empower them to continue their work in fostering inclusivity and safe spaces for the LGBTIQ community.

The training will be facilitated by the Defenders Coalition, which includes experts in human rights advocacy and security, alongside psychologist and mental health professional Swabra Mumba. Coordination will be handled by Pema Kenya.

This Safety and Security Training represents a vital step toward creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTIQ individuals and their allies. By providing religious leaders and ESPs with the necessary tools and strategies to navigate security risks, this initiative aims to foster safer communities and promote human rights for all.