Jake Young is the communications and culture director of Brave Trails, an organization dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth leadership. Many families are experiencing a “deep collective grief” in the wake of the election, they said. Those emotions should be validated, not pushed aside.
“It’s heartbreaking to see our LGBTQ+ youth having to shoulder fears about their future in the face of so much negativity,” Young said. “They shouldn’t have to bear the weight of wondering if they’ll be granted basic human dignity, nor should they need to be constantly strong or brave just to navigate the world.”
Lee Hatcher is a therapist at the Gender & Sexuality Therapy Center in New York City. They were a 16-year-old trans kid in the South when Trump was elected to his first term. Hatcher recalls thinking at the time: “How am I going to make it through this?” So they understand these fears firsthand.
Hatcher advises parents to talk to their children about how the new administration could impact their future and “actively listen and engage with how that makes them feel,” they said.
“Trans youth need tangible emotional support, and by letting them know their voice is heard and valid, you are showing them what you’re going to do: stand by them every step of the way,” Hatcher said. “It doesn’t mean it will be easy; it means that love and community persists.”
Young also underscored the important role parents and guardians of LGBTQ+ kids play, especially during these uncertain times.
“The mental health of LGBTQ+ youth functions best when they feel part of a supportive community, have role models who offer hope for a brighter future and know they are fully supported at home,” Young said.
“In this moment, the power of connection and community cannot be overstated. Providing these pillars of support can make a world of difference in helping them feel seen, valued and hopeful.”
