Still Here. LGBTQ+ Youth Are Still Moving Forward.

As the news seems to bring more heartbreak than hope, we know these are difficult times. But even - and especially - as the world around us feels uncertain, we’re holding strong here at Outright, as youth carry on being their wise and brilliant selves! Amidst so much loss, our communities continue to show up for one another, finding joy and connection where and when we can.

Just two days ago, the world lost a formidable trans elder, Miss Major Griffin-Gracy. She was a tireless advocate and force for justice whose life touched so many. We are deeply saddened by this news and hold dear her courage, resilience, and commitment to uplifting marginalized voices, which will forever inspire us.

As you may know, last week we were met with the devastating news that the Pride Center of Vermont had to suspend its operations. For so many, the Pride Center has been a lifeline - a place of connection, advocacy, and belonging. We’ve been in touch with their leadership, other community partners and stakeholders, and our own team, to understand what happened, and to make sure we are rallying together for our people into the future. We stand in solidarity with all those who rely on their services, as well as the incredible staff that powered their programs.

Adding to this loss, we’ve learned of the federal government’s decision to dismantle the Department of Special Education within the U.S. Department of Education. This move will have profound impacts on students and families, many within our LGBTQ+ community, who rely on IEPs and specialized support that help them thrive in school and beyond.

These moments are heavy, and it’s important to name that. But even in the midst of loss and uncertainty, we must continue to find reasons for hope. At Outright, that hope often begins with LGBTQ+ youth, who show us what resilience looks like in action.

Our Youth Organizing Program has become one of the most powerful forces in our work. Started just a few years ago, it’s grown into a space where young people learn to lead, build skills, and take action on the issues that matter most to them. Every youth organizer receives a stipend for their time and contributions, a reflection of how deeply we value their expertise. This year, they’ll take center stage during Leadership Day, serving as facilitators, trainers, and changemakers guiding the next generation forward.

Our team of Youth Organizers are leading with clarity, courage, and care, building spaces where authenticity is celebrated, where inclusion is non-negotiable, and where queer joy is a form of resistance. Here’s what a few of our 11 youth organizers have to say:

"I want to be able to make a positive difference in my community and be able to make it so myself and others will have lots of opportunities to experience queer joy. I also wanted to build my leadership skills to bring back to my school community." - Dakota Wood (she/her), Youth Organizer

“I wanted to work with other queer people to make sure that our voices can be heard and WILL be heard. I want to show young people that they can make change, if they are willing to work for it. And I think we should all be willing to work for it in times like now.” - Tee Bennett (any pronouns), Youth Organizer

“As a youth organizer this year I hope to advocate for the LGBTQ+ youth voices in my local and school community, in addition to state wide, and make them feel more heard. My passion is advocacy and my hope is that through this internship I can use that passion to educate, spread awareness, and amplify the voice of the youth.” - Chloe Mol (she/her), Youth Organizer

This is what POWER is all about!

Their work reminds us that even as systems falter, the spirit of our community and the power we hold together endures.

And, we shared with you a few weeks ago that we have new programming beginning in the Fall. Stay tuned THIS WEEK for more information.

We will keep showing up for one another, keep organizing, and keep building the future youth know is possible.

To our broader community, please know we are still here. We remain steadfast in our mission, committed to showing up for you, and to moving forward—loud, proud, and united.