The Feminist Inclusion Leadership Center (FIL-Center), a transfeminist NGO working for black trans, gender diverse and LBQ rights in Uganda, was founded in 2019, with active implementation of the organisation beginning in 2022 and registration in 2023. FIL-Center was founded by Samantha Jordans (Executive Director), Ms Brendah (Human Rights advocate) and Sheila Makeyline (SRHR Advocate). The organisation began as a direct response to the growing challenges posed by hostile legislation, such as the Anti-Homosexuality Law and the Sexual Offenses Bill, which intensified the vulnerabilities of queer individuals and disadvantaged women.

Vision

FIL-Center envisions a more just and peaceful world where everyone is able to realise their autonomy, dignity and equity/equality.

Mission

A commitment to intersectional grassroots activism, actively engaging with various issues and strategies to promote feminist ideals, foster societal transformation, eradicate discrimination, and secure equal rights for trans and gender diverse groups across all dimensions of social, political, and economic life.

Areas of Work

  • Advocacy for gender equity/equality: To promote and protect the rights of LBQ and trans individuals through sustained advocacy efforts, challenging discriminatory laws, and raising awareness about gender issues, building a history in the community which will be used by future advocates.
  • Education and empowerment: To increase the accessibility of comprehensive education and vocational training programmes that equip trans and gender diverse individuals with skills and knowledge necessary for personal development and economic independence.
  • Healthcare access: To ensure that all individuals, particularly those from marginalised communities, mostly trans communities, have access to inclusive and gender-affirming healthcare services, including sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR).
  • Support and safety: To establish support systems and safety programmes that address the immediate needs of LGBTQ+ individuals facing crises, such as evictions, violence, and discrimination, while promoting mental health and well-being.
  • Capacity building: To strengthen the capacities of key populations and queer-led organisations through training, mentorship, and resources, fostering a network of empowered advocates for social justice.
  • Collaboration and solidarity: To build partnerships with other organisations, coalitions, and community stakeholders to create a united front for advancing human rights and inclusion for all marginalised groups.

Programmes

  • Healthcare access: Facilitating of gender-affirming healthcare services, including hormone therapy, primary information and surgery recommendations, as well as SRHR services.
  • Mental health support: Counselling and support spaces to address the unique challenges and stressors of the trans, gender diverse and LBQ community.
  • Advocacy and representation: Advocating for the rights and recognition of trans, feminist policies at local and regional (East Africa) levels.
  • Emergency funding: Funds to assist communities in crisis situations, including financial support for housing, healthcare and basic needs.
  • Educational support: Tuition assistance and adult education programmes focused on vocational skills.
  • Community building: Creating safe and inclusive spaces for all women and girls, as well as gender diverse communities to connect, share experiences and build supportive networks.
  • Empowerment and leadership development: Leadership training and capacity-building opportunities for women, girls, trans and gender diverse individuals to enhance their skills, confidence and advocacy abilities.

Through workshops and community training programmes, the FIL-Center has advocated for increased access to sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) among queer individuals. The organisation has collaborated with various health providers, highlighting the need for resilience and the urgent demand for policy change, while also creating safe channels for queer individuals. Its advocacy efforts have also led to successful collaborations with other organisations, amplifying the organisation’s impact and fostering solidarity within the queer community. 

“As we continue to grow, we remain focused on uplifting the voices of those often silenced and ensuring that our work reflects the diverse experiences within our communities. Our story is one of resilience, hope, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves to live authentically and safely.”

Contact

Website
Email: info@filcenter.org
+256 787059717
Facebook
Twitter (X)
Instagram

Images from FIL-Center’s Facebook page