As we enter Back-to-School season, we can’t help but think of the LGBTQ+ youth in this country. The LGBTQ+ youth who are being targeted by legislation that seeks to strip them of their most basic rights. The LGBTQ+ youth whose right to simply exist and be is up for constant debate.
Lambda Legal stands firmly with LGBTQ+ young people, and we are in the courts fighting fiercely on their behalf.
At this very moment, we are battling to ensure that young people living in Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma, and Montana, among countless other states, have access to life-saving, gender-affirming medical care. Meanwhile in Idaho, we’re looking to permanently block a bathroom bill that cruelly targets trans students, and in Tennessee we continue to challenge a sports ban that discriminates against young trans athletes.
Through this work, we hope our message to LGBTQ+ youth rings loud and clear:
We see you.
We hear you.
We have got your back ALWAYS.
And we’re not the only ones who want to uplift LGBTQ+ youth. Lambda Legal recently spoke to parents, teachers, coaches, social workers, and other student allies from all over the U.S. Together, we’ve created a list of powerful affirmations that center and celebrate LGBTQ+ kids.
These words are meant to help heal, comfort, and empower LGBTQ+ students everywhere. We want these affirmations to instill hope and confidence in a community that has seen more darkness than light as of late.
In one of the affirmations, Celia, a Maryland-based elementary school music teacher said, “You are beautiful, powerful, and necessary to the world exactly as you are.”
Longtime New Yorker Joe had this touching message for his trans son and other trans kids out there: “Being your true self is what makes me proud of you. Never be scared to show the world your uniqueness.”
Meanwhile Lindsey, a counselor and lifeguard at LGBTQ+ youth summer camp CampOUT Florida, wanted LGBTQ+ kids to know, “Your strength amidst the storms around you inspires so much hope in the queer community.”
Find the rest of the affirmations, from both the community at large and Lambda Legal, down below. And please share them with the LGBTQ+ students in your life!
Now more than ever, LGBTQ+ youth need to know that they are valid and worthy of love.
Affirmations from the Community
“You don’t need to be understood in order to deserve safety and compassion.” – Rachel, Clinical Social Worker for Minors (Washington, D.C.)
“When you come through my lunch line, I will be intentional in my interactions to affirm your identity and be a model for others to do the same.” – Katie, Elementary and High School Food Service Manager (Pennsylvania)
“Seeing you grow up has been so inspiring.” – Joe, Uncle of Trans Child (Nevada)
“Life can get pretty rough sometimes; remember there are so many people who see you, who hear you, and who support you on your journey to becoming your best and most authentic self!” – Chandler, Outreach Manager at Odyssey Youth Movement (Washington)
“Never wish away today, because who you are is someone to be proud of.” – Jenn, Transgender Diversity Consultant (New York)
Affirmations from Lambda Legal
Your life matters.
Your identity is valid.
No one can erase you.
You are seen.
You are heard.
Trans kids deserve… a future; respect; healthcare; safe spaces to learn.
Trans joy is… resilient; empowering; life-saving.
