Pride Month is just around the corner, and it’s a perfect opportunity to show your support and solidarity for the LGBTQ+ community. In this article, we spotlight several organizations here in Japan that support the LGBTQ+ community – we encourage you to read, check them out, and make a donation if you can!
Founded in 2009, ReBit is a non-profit organization that aims to create a society in Japan where LGBTQ+ individuals can learn, live, and work without having to set aside or disregard their identity. They listen to real accounts of LGBTQ+ individuals and use data from their own research to address and create initiatives that help relieve them from these issues. Their initiatives include educational projects that promote understanding of the LGBTQ+ community in schools; career projects that provide training to create a safe working environment; and administrative and social welfare projects that support individuals with mental disabilities. As of March 2023, they have provided 1,234 classes/training sessions, with a total attendance of 180,000 people in schools and government administrations. Their work has also reached companies with their educational LGBTQ+ materials, and have received awards for their work. Furthermore, ReBit shows how donations contribute to their initiatives and highlights the voices of LGBTQ+ individuals who have benefited from them.
Fukuoka Rainbow Educational Network (FRENS) is a non-profit organization based in Fukuoka that supports LGBTQ+ youth and provides a safe environment where they can belong. They aim to improve accessibility of LGBTQ+ information and awareness to help children and young adults through campaigns, consultation, hotlines for LGBTQ+ youth, and social gatherings. Additionally, since 2008, Representative Henri Ono has given lectures and workshops educating elementary to university students, workplaces, and government institutions about the LGBTQ+ community. By advocating for LGBTQ+ youth, FRENS helps create a community where individuals won’t feel alone and can understand themselves fully. They greatly appreciate donations, which help them continue these initiatives and spread their message.
Pride House Tokyo is an organization that brings together 35 NPOs, 15 corporations, and 20 embassies to create a safe space and information hub for the LGBTQ+ community here in Japan. Acting as Japan’s first permanent LGBTQ+ center, Pride House Tokyo raises awareness through in-person events, online support services, educational content, and public outreach. In the past, Pride House Tokyo focused specifically on promoting inclusivity in sports, with multiple events centered around the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. Currently, the organization is self-sustainable and operates education and consulting initiatives. That said, it also welcomes donations from individuals to broaden its impact on Tokyo’s LGBTQ+ community.
The Japan Alliance for LGBT Legislation (J-ALL) is a nonprofit organization in Japan that advocates for legislation to protect LGBTQ+ people from discrimination. Their main goal is to push for anti-discrimination legislation so that people are not treated unfairly because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. They work by researching policies, advising governments and businesses, and organizing educational lectures and workshops to spread awareness about LGBTQ+ issues. This organization also supports companies and local governments in improving inclusivity and understanding of diversity. By advocating for legal change and education, J-ALL helps build a safer and more accepting society for LGBTQ+ individuals in Japan, which is why donating to them can make a meaningful impact.
Lawyers for LGBTQ & Allies Network (LLAN) is an organization that aims to improve the social landscape for the LGBTQ+ community. Although Japan has made strides in being more accepting, discrimination persists and significantly impacts the lives of members in the LGBTQ+ community: LLAN aims to combat discrimination towards and unfavorable misconceptions about the LGBTQ+ community through hosting events aimed at promoting dialogue and providing legal counsel for individuals who face adversity due to their sexual or gender identity. Their events – including, most recently, movie screenings, galas, and webinars – as well as their professional advice are invaluable in promoting equality in Japanese society.
