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As real people with real experiences who have shaped and will continue to shape U.S. culture and society, Black LGBTQ people are not political wedge issues. The insidious combination of racism and queerphobia can seriously affect the mental health of our LGBTQ youth of color, especially amid the political attacks on human rights through efforts to control bodily autonomy including reproductive rights and identity. Beyond celebrations of Pride Month and Juneteenth, we must all work to provide space for Black LGBTQ people.

It’s essential to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and to affirm practices for wellness—especially during Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Month. These LFJ resources remind us of the ongoing impact of racism and bias and provide recommendations to support adults in helping young people during these polarizing times. 

It is imperative to provide inclusive education because, as GLSEN’s Executive Director, Melanie Willingham-Jaggers, emphasizes, “Accurate and inclusive lessons not only affirm LGBTQ+ students, but also give non-LGBTQ+ students clear information about the diverse world around them and help prepare all young people to navigate and contribute to a multicultural society.”

Through learning that teaches honest history, introduces servant leadership (an approach that focuses on leadership in service of the community) and eases entry into the movement for justice, Youth Learning for Justice aims to help young people realize their power to shape the future.

October is Youth Justice Action Month. Commit with us to work toward transforming harmful systems and creating more supportive communities in which all young people can thrive. An important step in creating change together is participating in our election process. Our votes matter.

Learning the honest history of our nation helps us understand our diversity and strengthens us all as we work toward building on more solid national foundation of truth and justice. As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, the Learning for Justice page offers resource to learn and teach about the diversity of Indigenous cultures and communities. To explore our historical complexity, the recent magazine article, “American Patriotic Songs: Context and Perspective,” helps us to confront the various perspectives that a single patriotic song can embody.