LGBTQ young people face unique challenges in their school years related to family, peer and community relationships. In recent decades we have seen more LGBTQ+ representation in media and positions of power, which has created an important shift in cultural norms. Though queer people have indeed become more visible, the threat of rejection from family, prejudice in community, and violence against queer and trans youth remains potent -- some argue this is indeed because of said marked increase in visibility. Manifestations of homophobia and transphobia continue to be enacted, most horrifically, through the spate of violence against Black trans women.
As family members, teachers or counselors of queer and trans students, you have an incredible opportunity to be a safe and accepting presence in the life of those young people. If you are just beginning to learn about the many facets of LGBTQ identity or if you have already begun your journey, this resource page will offer activities both for students and the people who care for them.
Research shows that having one or more adult in the life of a LGBTQ young person can serve as an incredibly potent suicide prevention measure. In fact, LGBTQ youth who feel accepted at home are 40% less likely to attempt suicide. You don’t have to get everything right all the time, but reminding the young people in your life you care about them and accept them for who they are is one of the most powerful acts of suicide prevention.
Check out the list of resources to help you be an ally and support for LGBTQ youth.
National organizations like PFLAG are wonderful resources for the family members of LGBTQ youth and offer community, learning opportunities, and ways to advocate for change. Welcoming Schools, a project of the Human Rights Campaign, offers educators free professional development as well as downloadable curricula to use in their classrooms. GLSEN and the GSA Network are both incredibly useful organizations for those counselors looking to create gender and sexuality alliances in their schools. One of our favorite online resources is a list of queer and trans wellness activities created by GSA Network which includes this free and printable coloring book called Breaking the Norms.
You can also find exploration on gender norms and discussion questions and drawing directives for LGBTQ students in our Activity Corner.