Creating Safe Spaces for Immigrant Families

PKI’s LGBTQ support program has built deep expertise in helping new immigrants navigate adjustment and trauma. Recently, our team was approached by the New Proud House in Rishon LeZion with a pressing need: support for Russian-speaking parents whose children—newly arrived in Israel—now feel safe enough to come out about their identities.

For many of these parents, this is unfamiliar and overwhelming. After more than a decade of living under homophobic propaganda in Russia, they often lack reliable information about LGBTQ+ issues and rights. What they need most is a safe space for dialogue, access to knowledge, and compassionate support.

In response, PKI’s LGBTQ leaders convened an urgent strategy session with the directors of the Immigrant Department and the Proud House. Together, PKI agreed to create a joint resource hub—a place where parents can learn, ask questions, and connect with experts and other families walking the same path.