Youth's Lives Every Day
Thursday, January 16, 2025 – Ahead of the 2025 United States Presidential Inauguration, Jaymes Black (they/she/he), CEO of The Trevor Project, the leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ young people, released the following statement:
“I want to speak directly to the LGBTQ+ young people across the United States who may be feeling afraid about what your future in this country might look like:
“You are not alone. You are loved. And you have millions of people fighting for you to lead the healthy, safe, and long life that you deserve. Even in your darkest moments, even as newsrooms publish headlines about anti-LGBTQ+ policies, or you come across hostile perspectives on social media – you are never alone, even if you may feel that way.
“Many of your peers have expressed to our crisis counselors that they are worried about how the next four years may impact their lives. In fact, on November 6, 2024, the day after the election, The Trevor Project saw a nearly 700% increase in volume across our classic crisis services. Your feelings are valid and they are shared. Many of us are navigating difficult feelings along with you.
“While you may have fears and questions about what’s to come, I want you to know that you have an entire community behind you. Many of us have been preparing for the exact kind of political challenges we face now, and for many communities, these are not new. Lucky for us, we sit on the shoulders of leaders who have faced tremendous obstacles and uncertainties, for generations.
“There may be negative news about your rights or your identity in the coming days and months. It may be hard to hear – or even understand. But, I want you to know the vast majority of people want you to thrive exactly as you are. If you ever need support, The Trevor Project’s counselors are available 24/7. Please know that we will continue fighting for you, as will our partners, allies, and advocates in every corner of the country. We’re here. We aren’t going anywhere. And no matter what the future holds, we know how to survive – and thrive – together.”
Relevant resources:
- Finding Support & Building Community Amid Political Uncertainty
- Navigating Personal Safety while Taking Action as an LGBTQ+ Young Person
- How to Signal You are an Ally in Hostile Environment
If you or someone you know needs help or support, The Trevor Project’s trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386, via chat at TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help, or by texting START to 678678.
