CYPRUS — Adult tube site xHamster today said it is launching an initiative to connect LGBTQ people living in repressive regimes with resources and asylum options.
Visitors to xHamster’s gay channel in Indonesia now will be presented with a pop-up alerting visitors about the recent government crackdowns and directing them to resources about legal aid and refugee resettlement programs.
The program was launched after a series of police raids, forced HIV testing and public canings of gay men in Indonesia, xHamster said.
xHamster chose Indonesia to launch the program, coincidentally on World Refugee Day, because of those crackdowns and the high penetration of English-language speakers. If successful, xHamster will launch similar initiatives in other areas where LGBTQ people face persecution.
xHamster Vice President Alex Hawkins noted that the site’s massive amount of traffic can be used a tool to help its initiatives. Hawkins said that xHamster has more daily visitors than the BBC, The New York Times or ESPN.
“We know that adult content is often a resource for those struggling with sexuality, or used for relief during times of persecution,” Hawkins said. “It is sought out by those who may not have a connection to a larger community, or who may be avoiding public spaces.
“We know we are in a unique position to reach these people, and we wanted to begin to build a lifeline.”
Hawkins said that those interested in helping those fleeing persecution can do so by supporting Rainbow Refugee.