Ari's Story

In Israel, Project Kesher is actively championing the rights of LGBTQ individuals who have fled Russia’s homophobic regime but have encountered serious difficulties securing basic rights after making aliya.
 
Take Ari, who fled Russia for Israel with his wife, who is Jewish. Not only were they not recognized as married, Ari found himself unable to secure a working visa. He couldn’t find a job, open a bank account, rent an apartment or apply for health insurance. Under duress and isolated, with no clear way forward, the couple reached out to Project Kesher Israel for help.
 
Project Kesher Israel provided funding for Ari and his wife to fight for their legal rights in court. Their efforts proved successful, with Ari becoming a citizen, and also set a precedent that will help countless others in similar situations. What’s more, the organization helped the couple find other LGBTQ Israelis, joining a community that will offer ongoing love and support.
 
Project Kesher is committed to providing as much help as possible to this vulnerable population and can only do more with your generous support.