RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — This month sees a slew of Pride events celebrating LGBTQ+ culture and equality, with a focus on acceptance and advocacy.
There is a renewed focus on advocacy for young people and teens who may face particular biases, including discrimination, harassment, rejection from family and violence.
According to the CDC, navigating the teenage years can be difficult, and it can be even more stressful for LGBTQ+ youth.
“We have an eight-week waiting list as we try to train volunteers,” said Cameron Bartosiewicz of the Youth Pride Association. “We have a lot of people wanting to volunteer, and it takes a lot of resources to make sure everyone is certified and can provide the highest quality service to our youth.”
Youth Pride Association has a peer mentor program that is in high demand.
See also: Triangle Help Center raises awareness for Men’s Mental Health Month
According to the CDC, 69% of LGBTQ+ youth reported ongoing feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2021. For heterosexual youth, the figure was 35%. The report also said LGBTQ+ high school students are about four times more likely to attempt suicide during the pandemic than their heterosexual peers, and 20% of LGBTQ+ students have experienced physical abuse at home from a parent or other adult.
“This is a tragedy,” Bartosiewicz said, “but the solution turns out to be simple: The CDC and organizations like ours say affirmative schools would alleviate many of these disparities.”
Advocates said schools can create safe, supportive school environments that promote students’ health and well-being.
“An affirming classroom in the ideal sense is one where LGBTQ+ topics are not taboo. Students can talk about their lives and the issues they face without being ridiculed. And it’s not a high-profile issue. We exist in every community,” Bartosiewicz said.
More stories: Festivals and other events celebrate Pride Month across the Triangle
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