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Collectif Arc-en-Ciel

The Collectif Arc-en-Ciel (CAEC) is a Mauritian non-governmental organisation dedicated to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. The association advocates against homophobia and various forms of discrimination related to gender identity and sexual orientation.

 

Since its establishment in 2005, the collective has provided active support to the community and has worked tirelessly for the equality of human rights.

 

The CAEC envisions a Mauritian society where every citizen possesses equal rights without any discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.

 

Our objectives include the decriminalization of homosexuality and enhanced protection against hate speech directed at the LGBTQIA+ community.

 

Our mission is to promote the integration of differences and ensure equal treatment for every individual in our Rainbow Nation.

 

Accreditation Number with the National Social Inclusion Foundation: N/1197

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History

Following a resolution presented to the United Nations Human Rights Commission in 2003, which proposed that May 17th be recognized as the International Day Against Homophobia, citizens, associations, and businesses came together to form the Collectif Arc-en-Ciel.

Objectives
  • To fight against homophobia and discrimination related to sexual orientation through advocacy and awareness.
  • To support and assist victims of homophobic discrimination or violence and provide psychological support and legal advice to those affected.
  • To raise public awareness by highlighting the harmful effects of homophobia and other forms of discrimination related to sexual orientation or gender identity.
  • To contribute to legislative and societal change by working towards the evolution of laws, practices, and public attitudes.
Main achievements

CAEC actively combats various forms of discrimination related to gender identity and sexual orientation.

 

Legal Support: 

CAEC supported Mr. Abdool Ridwan Firaas Ah Seek, a human rights activist and president of CAEC, in his legal challenge against the constitutionality of Section 250 of the Penal Code. In a landmark ruling on October 4, 2023, the Supreme Court of Mauritius declared Section 250, which criminalized consensual same-sex relations, unconstitutional. This decision marked a significant victory for the LGBTQ+ community, as it removed the legal threat hanging over homosexual men and reinforced the principles of equality and non-discrimination in Mauritius​.

 

Regular Services:

  • Art Therapy: Held once a month on Saturdays, this service provides a creative outlet for community members to express their emotions.
  • Counselling Services: Private sessions with a psychologist are available by appointment on the first three Saturdays of each month. Appointments can be made by calling 465 45 96 during office hours.
  • Job Empowerment: Collective sessions aimed at providing support and guidance in professional endeavours are held on the last Saturday of each month.

 

CAEC periodically organises social evenings to bring the community together and these events are also a way of fund-raising for the organisation’s activities. These events provide a safe space for community members to socialise and support one another​.

 

In June every year, CAEC organizes the Equality March and "Pride Night," which are major events aimed at celebrating diversity and promoting equal rights. These events are key highlights for the LGBTQ+ community in Mauritius​.

 

CAEC also conducts awareness sessions in various companies, organisations, and educational institutions across the island, focusing on raising awareness about LGBTQ+ issues and advocating for equal rights​.

Sources of funding
  • The Other Foundation
  • Open Society Foundations
  • National Social Inclusion Foundation (NSIF)
  • Interpride