LMTI SPOTLIGHT

LMTI is committed to lifting up and supporting our LGBTQ+ youth and alumni. The month of Pride may look different this year because of social distancing, but what's not different is the incredible courage, resiliency, and strength of the LGBTQ+ community. As reaffirmed by the findings of the National LGBTQ+ Youth Survey on Mental Health, youth in the LGBTQ+ community experience challenges that have a deep impact on mental health. The study found that 71% of LGBTQ youth reported feeling sad or hopeless for at least two weeks in the past year. The study also found that 39% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past twelve months, with more than half of transgender and non-binary youth having seriously considered.

As educators and adults who work with youth, we have an obligation to support youth who identify as LGBTQ+, and to help them feel safe, accepted, and loved. Additionally important to realize is that less than half of youth surveyed are out to an adult at school, which means that there are many more youth that we don't know about who are part of the LGBTQ+ community who may also be struggling.

Pride is a time to acknowledge the struggles that the LGTBQ+ community has been through, and to celebrate acceptance and authenticity. It's also a great time to reflect upon ways in which we can help LGBTQ+ youth thrive. Read on below for some great resources to get you started!