Grateful for the Brilliance of Trans and Queer Youth

As the last leaves fall and the snow rolls in, I’m easing into a season of reflection and looking back as best I can on a wild year: what challenged us, what changed us, and most importantly what gave us hope. One thing stands out so clearly: I am profoundly grateful for trans and queer youth.

Trans and queer youth move through a world neither built for them nor welcoming their truth. And still, they show remarkable conviction. They hold themselves with honesty. They build community with a tenderness rooted in a deep understanding of our shared humanity. They lead with creativity, and a sense of resilience that is truly unique. 

Ever think about why unicorns are a favored symbol among many LGBTQ+ youth? Here’s what I got: They stand confidently in their own colors, and are magical AF! They remind us that being unique isn’t just allowed, it’s powerful.

As you do the beautiful and often tricky work of gathering with family and friends this season, I hope you can join me in holding close to what young people teach us: courage can be quiet or loud, and living in our truth is a kind of warmth all its own.

Today and into this season, I hope you too can find moments to reflect. And in doing so, I hope you feel proud of the magic you help nurture in others. Whether you can see it or not, I for sure know that your support is helping create opportunities for LGBTQ+ and all youth to find their people, their power, and dream big. Here’s to so much more of that in the days and weeks to come.