Pride Month is an annual celebration recognizing the impact that members of the LGBTQIA2S+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual and Two-Spirit) community have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.

LGBTQIA2S+ youth face unique challenges and associated health outcomes, which include:

• Greater health disparities than their cisgender straight peers
• Higher levels of suicidal ideation than cisgender straight peers 
• Increased risk of experiencing homelessness
• Increased experiences of being bullied

As youth-serving professionals, you play an important role in supporting the positive development of all youth, including youth who identify as LGBTQIA2S+.

Ways to Get Involved:

• Learn more about the protective factors for LGBTQIA2S+ youth.
• Learn tips and strategies you can implement in your programming to foster inclusivity:
  • Creating Safe And Inclusive Spaces For LGBTQ+ Youth
  • Creating Inclusive Spaces for Youth: A Facilitator’s Guide to Equity and Inclusion in the Classroom
• View the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) report, Moving Beyond Change Efforts: Evidence and Action to Support and Affirm LGBTQI+ Youth for resources and interventions to support youth of diverse sexual orientation and gender identity.
• Show your support on social media by posting about Pride Month and share information from organizations that serve LGBTQIA2S+ youth, like The Trevor Project.