Support for LGBTQ+ Migrants in the Netherlands

About us

Secret Garden Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Amsterdam, established by and for LGBT individuals (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) from ethnic and cultural minority backgrounds, as well as their allies. A significant portion of our target group includes individuals with a Muslim background. Our mission is to advocate for and support the interests of this community in the broadest sense.

We provide social, legal, and psychological support and guidance to LGBT individuals within our target group, with a particular focus on LGBT asylum seekers. Our services are tailored to individual needs, which are assessed during an intake interview following registration via email, phone, or walk-in. Support may include one-on-one counseling or group introductions, offering a safe space for people to share their experiences or connect with peers. Our premises include a dedicated area for conversations and community interaction. afterward.

For individuals facing threats from family members or eviction due to their identity, we work through our volunteer network to provide shelter and psychological support. A psychologist is available periodically to offer professional assistance. When safe housing is needed, we strive to arrange accommodations through our foundation’s network.

We also assist LGBT immigrants with practical challenges, such as integration courses, social services, and housing. Additionally, we advocate for LGBT asylum seekers who have fled persecution due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, facilitating connections with government institutions as needed.

Beyond direct support, Secret Garden hosts weekly themed evenings, fostering community and dialogue. These events begin with a shared meal, followed by a documentary screening, film, or other audiovisual content, sparking discussions on relevant topics. Occasionally, evenings are dedicated solely to debate. These popular gatherings attract 25 to 50 attendees each month, providing opportunities for further exchange afterward.

Volunteer

Empowering LGBTQ+ Migrants Together

Supporting the LGBTQ+ community with migration backgrounds in the Netherlands through advocacy, resources, and community building.

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Our Objectives

Serve as an interest group for LGBT individuals, engaging with other organizations and communities to represent and advance their interests.

Provide information, activities, and courses to our target group—individuals with Muslim or other ethnic-cultural backgrounds—enhancing their lives as gay, bisexual, lesbian, or transgender individuals. We encourage educational and creative engagement with their lived experiences, promoting self-acceptance among LGBT individuals.

Advocacy

Education and Awareness

Partner with self-organizations in the Netherlands and international groups that advance the interests of our community.

Collaboration

Integration and Participation

Support the integration and active participation of our target group within the multicultural Dutch society.

Support and Activities Offered by Secret Garden

Discovering feelings for someone of the same gender can be life-changing—beautiful yet daunting, especially within cultures where homosexuality remains taboo, such as Muslim communities or other ethnic backgrounds. Rejection by family or escalating risks can follow disclosure. Secret Garden offers a lifeline: a place to talk or seek shelter. Contact us for support.

Our themed evenings explore how to navigate life as an LGBT individual, featuring guest speakers who lead discussions on specific topics alongside attendees. These events empower participants to better understand and embrace their identities.

Themed Evenings, Gatherings, and Discussions

Support for LGBT Asylum Seekers

Since 2009, Secret Garden has provided dedicated support to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender asylum seekers fleeing persecution due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Our assistance spans social, psychological, and legal domains, helping them integrate into Dutch society. Research highlights that this group often struggles to discuss their sexual identity openly—a challenge recognized by relevant authorities, including the responsible Ministry.

With years of expertise, we understand the profound psychological burden asylum seekers face when hesitant to disclose their orientation. This reluctance complicates asylum procedures, creating inefficiencies for all involved parties, including the COA (Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers) and government bodies. Secret Garden addresses this through targeted education, informing asylum seekers about sexual diversity in the Netherlands and supporting them in navigating their identity. Our goal is to help them gain clarity, foster self-acceptance, and prepare effectively for their asylum process.

To this end, we have developed a brochure and documentary, amplifying our efforts to raise awareness and provide practical guidance.

”Secret Garden remains committed to breaking the silence around sexual identity, offering a safe haven and expert support to those in need. Whether you seek community, shelter, or assistance with your asylum journey, we are here to help.”