Support Trans Queer Youth NOLA

There's no way to sugarcoat it; LGBTQ youth are under attack, and in an increasingly hostile climate, Trans Queer Youth NOLA is a lifeline. Founded by students in 2017, TQY has consistently provided Greater New Orleans youth the space to show up as their authentic selves to build community, experience how one can blossom when they are accepted and understood, explore leadership opportunities and evolving interests, and be the change they want to see in the world.

Funds raised for TQY sustain our youth-led programming and aids our members during emergencies so they know that despite life's curveballs, they have a place to turn for friendship and encouragement. Dedicated Youth Organizers and volunteers meet weekly to plan bi-monthly gatherings: arranging for locations (increasingly tricky since the LGBT Center closed), activities (ex: workshops, tours, celebrations), transportation, and a nourishing meal- all free of cost for participants. Some of my favorite TQY memories are cuddling chickens and harvesting herbs or when we raised enough money one Christmas to send our members to Drivers Ed. But the power of TQY isn't just about the joy and the fun; it's also how we support each other in times of crisis. In the years I have been a "friendly adult presence" for TQY, I've witnessed our brilliant and beautiful members do their best to cope with a slew of devastating blows, including food insecurity, family rejection, homelessness, hospitalization, incarceration, stalking, harassment and assault, hurricanes, new medical diagnoses, and losing loved ones to gun violence.

This Pride, we humbly ask for your financial support and to share this fundraiser with your networks. It's also vital to contact Governor Edwards, calling on him to exercise his veto power to strike down all legislation aimed at stripping LGBTQ youth of their fundamental human rights to education, medical care, and safety.

The Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health demonstrates that rates of suicidal thoughts have trended upward among LGBTQ young people over the last three years, with 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considering attempting suicide in the past year. We don't just want our youth to survive; we want them to thrive in a loving community that honors their human dignity.

From all of us at TQY: Thank you for your financial support!