Is the U.S. Becoming the Next Uganda? The Fight for LGBTQ Refugees Has Never Been More Urgent

In a world overwhelmed by chaos, division, and uncertainty, many of us find ourselves asking: Why?

Why did the people of the United States elect a leader whose actions seem intent on dismantling the very foundation of democracy? Why the cruelty, the divisiveness, and the relentless pursuit to tear down systems built on compassion, inclusion, and justice? While the situation may seem bleak, I believe the answers lie beyond the confines of our thinking minds—in a space we are only beginning to understand.

As we evolve into a new era, living in what can be described as the Fifth Dimension, a global spiritual awakening is unfolding. This "Kingdom of Heaven," as Jesus called it, is not a physical place but a state of consciousness where love, peace, and unity reside. Dr. Joe Dispenza refers to it as the Quantum Field, and Eckhart Tolle calls it The Now. Regardless of the names we assign, there exists a field of infinite potential—a realm beyond the mind, where pure consciousness thrives. The truth is, we are that consciousness.

From this higher perspective, the chaos we witness is part of a greater, transformative process—a global Dark Night of the Soul. In this collective spiritual journey, we are invited to transcend the limitations of our egoic minds and awaken to the truth of who we truly are: beings of pure, unconditional love.

It’s not an easy journey. From the ego's point of view, life is about satisfying desires, driven by fear. But fear cannot bring true happiness. The challenges we face—both personally and collectively—are vital steps in the process of transmuting fear into love. It is only through the darkness that we can truly see the light of truth.

And so, the question arises: What world do you want to create?

While the leadership in the United States may seem bent on dividing and dismantling, the heart of humanity cannot be broken by fear or hate. The love that drives the work of compassionate individuals—FEMA workers, military personnel, civil servants—cannot be destroyed. They continue their work not out of fear, but from the deep well of love within them.

As I sit here writing, I received a text from a Ugandan man who was traveling to the United States to stay with my husband and me. Tragically, his visa was canceled, leaving him stranded in Amsterdam due to recent policies. This is not the heart of the people. The heart of humanity knows only love, and it is this love that will ultimately heal the world.

The Impact on Diamond Mine Academy

The changing landscape in the United States has profound implications for the work we do at Diamond Mine Academy, our 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to saving the lives of LGBTQ Africans. Under the Biden administration, the U.S. government collaborated closely with the UNHCR to resettle East African refugees in the United States—a well-orchestrated program led by compassionate individuals. Canada has been a participant in these efforts, too. However, with the Trump administration’s Realigning the United States Refugee Admissions Program, the U.S. is no longer the primary destination.

As a result, we are shifting our operations to Canada, where we will continue supporting our mission by partnering with the Canadian government, the UNHCR, and organizations like Rainbow Railroad, who have years of experience working with LGBTQ refugees. While the details of UNHCR operations remain private, I am confident that strategies are already in place to redirect those headed for the U.S. to Canada.

On a personal level, this transition provides my husband and me with the opportunity to sell our home in New Jersey and pursue our dream of moving to Puerto Rico—a place my husband has always called home. At 70, I am retired, and my husband, at 66, is also ready to embrace retirement. The primary reason we maintained our home in West Orange was to provide a sanctuary for our African family and friends. Now that this is no longer feasible, we see this shift as an opportunity to fulfill our dream of living on a mountaintop in Puerto Rico, overlooking the ocean. We plan to spend our winters in Puerto Rico and summers in Canada, continuing our life-saving work with Diamond Mine Academy.

This, for us, is a perfect example of “turning lemons into lemonade.”

An Opportunity to Make a Difference

Given the current state of affairs in the United States, our mission at Diamond Mine Academy has never been more critical. We are a lifeline for LGBTQ Africans living under authoritarian regimes. Sadly, the United States is currently under the influence of an authoritarian government, not unlike Uganda. It was under Yoweri Museveni that Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Act of 2023 was passed, making being gay a crime punishable by death.

Before the Trump administration, Canada was ranked the 5th best country to live, while the U.S. ranked 23rd. In just one week, America has tragically become one of the worst places to live, now ranking alongside countries like Uganda.

Would you consider making a contribution to help us save the lives of the most vulnerable among us? Please visit our website at www.diamondmineacademy.org to learn more about the life-saving work we do and to make a donation. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us continue to provide safety and support to LGBTQ Africans facing unimaginable challenges.

The world is indeed in turmoil, but with your support, we can create a future filled with love, unity, and safety for those who need it most. Together, we can make a difference.

So, I ask you: Are you ready to walk through the darkness? To trust in the higher power guiding us toward the light of truth? The world is changing, and we have the power to shape that change. It starts with each of us individually, choosing to embody the love and peace we wish to see in the world.

Imagine a world where Africa, the heart of humanity, is the most welcoming and loving continent on Earth. This is possible, but we must all play our part. The path forward may be filled with challenges, but we are evolving, and it’s through this evolution that we will create the heaven on earth that was always intended.

The time for awakening is now. The light of love is here. Will you step into it with me?

#LGBTQRefugees #LoveIsTheAnswer #CompassionInAction #DiamondMineAcademy #StandUpForLove