Policy Challenges and Solutions to Improving Service Provision for LGBTI Asylum Seekers in Massachusetts

Currently, seventy-eight countries worldwide criminalize same sex activity between consenting adults.  These laws place lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) people in danger of harassment, assault, torture, and death. As a result, the number of LGBTI asylum seekers (LGBTIAS) resettling in the U.S. is growing.  Upon arrival, LGBTIAS are challenged with obtaining basic necessities and social support.  Few publications exist on health disparities of and available services for LGBTIAS.  This research explores perspectives of LGBTIAS resettling in Massachusetts (MA) and professionals who provide services to them.

This study employed a mixed methods approach.  A systematic review was conducted to analyze how U.S. federal immigration policy affects health outcomes among asylum seekers and discover service models that promote the health of LGBTIAS.  Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with four LGBTIAS and eight service providers in nonprofit, faith-based, and healthcare settings.  Interviews focused on LGBTIAS health disparities, experiences accessing services, and service gaps.  Conversations were recorded and analyzed for themes.

Themes included a.) lack of social support; b.)  inadequate service provision; and c.) lack of legal rights.  Themes among providers included a.) underfunding; b.) lack of LGBTI specific programs; c.) limited inter-organizational collaboration; and d.) federal inefficiencies in processing asylum claims.

LGBTIAS are a vulnerable and isolated population due to their legal status and inability to utilize religious and ethnic communities for resources. Creating an LGBTI asylum program and establishing a council that creates funding and builds awareness for increased asylum rights is needed to promote health and wellbeing among LGBTIAS.