We Work Together
Equal Voices Siaya (EV) is a queer, youth-led feminist community organization dedicated to shifting harmful community narratives and advancing the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth in rural Kenya through storytelling, advocacy, and community engagement.Â
We were founded in 2022 by queer community members who understood firsthand the realities of living outside major cities; limited safe spaces, social stigma, economic exclusion, and isolation. Many queer individuals in rural communities continue to navigate discrimination while lacking access to supportive networks and resources.
Equal Voices was created to change this reality.
We work to ensure that queer people in rural areas are seen, heard, and supported. Through community organizing, storytelling, advocacy, and economic empowerment initiatives, we help build communities where sexual and gender minorities can live authentically and with dignity.
Our work is grounded in feminist values, intersectionality, and community leadership. We center lived experiences, collective healing, and community-driven solutions to challenge inequality and build a more inclusive society.
Katika Equal Voices, tunaamini kwamba watu wanapopewa nafasi ya kuzungumza, kuandaa, na kuongoza, Sauti zao zinakuwa nguvu kubwa ya mabadiliko – My Voices, Our Equal Future.
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Equal Voices Siaya
Our Vision
A society where sexual and gender minorities are valued, respected, and able to live openly and authentically with equal access to opportunities, resources, and justice.
Our Mission
To challenge systemic barriers that limit equality and empowerment for sexual and gender minorities by strengthening community leadership, promoting wellbeing, and advancing social and economic justice.
Our Goal
To build strong, resilient communities where sexual and gender minorities in rural areas can live healthy, empowered, and fulfilling lives.
Our Values
- Haki za kijamii
Tunapinga ukosefu wa usawa wa kimfumo na miundo ya ubaguzi inayozuia uhuru na heshima ya jamii zilizotengwa. - Usawa
Tunatetea upatikanaji wa haki kwa fursa na rasilimali ili kila mtu aweze kuishi na kustawi bila vikwazo. - Fahari
Tunasheherekea utofauti, utambulisho, na tamaduni ndani ya jamii yetu, tukitambua fahari kama chanzo cha nguvu na mwonekano. - Ushirikiano na Umoja
Tunaamini kuwa mabadiliko yenye maana hutokea kupitia ushirikiano na hatua za pamoja na jamii, mashirika, washirika, na watetezi. - Uhusiano wa mifumo ya ukandamizaji
We recognize that people experience overlapping forms of discrimination based on gender, sexuality, class, geography, and other social identities.
Our Story
Equal Voices began as a response to a simple but powerful realization: many queer people living in rural communities feel invisible and unsupported.
While urban areas often have LGBTQ+ networks and resources, rural queer individuals frequently experience isolation and exclusion from both community and economic opportunities.
Our founders recognized the need to create spaces where people could connect, share their experiences, and support one another. What started as small conversations and gatherings has grown into a community organization working to strengthen visibility, leadership, and economic opportunities for sexual and gender minorities.
Today, Equal Voices continues to grow as a platform where queer individuals can organize, heal, and collectively build a more inclusive future.
Our Thematic Areas
Leadership & Community Voice
Representation matters. EV works to strengthen leadership among sexual and gender minority individuals so they can participate in decision-making spaces, influence policies, and advocate for their rights.
Safety & Wellbeing
Equal Voices creates safe spaces where community members can connect, share experiences, and access support. Through Our Mental Wellness Hub, dialogue spaces, and community support networks, we promote dignity, safety, and belonging.
Sustainable Livelihoods
Economic empowerment is essential for independence and dignity. However, many queer individuals face barriers to employment and financial stability.