August Topic: Gay Straight Alliance: A Critical Community Resource for LGBTQ Mental Well-Being
Disparities in mental well-being among LGBT youth in Minnesota are profound. LGBT youth living in rural areas have very few safe spaces for real interaction and self-identification. This makes their journey through sexual identification and "coming out" to family, friends and community more difficult. Learn about how a partnership with youth and a local Gay Straight Alliance helped to identify, document and showcase the experiences of rural Minnesota LGBT youth using video and other creative outlets. Understand the National and State statistics to provide context for a deeper understanding about rural Minnesota LGBT youth and their involvement in a GSA (Genders and Sexualities Alliance), and consider opportunities for how your community can provide safe spaces for youth programs and schools, especially rural communities. Learn about specific resources and tools through Outfront Minnesota to help you sponsor or support your local GSA.
Presenters are Joseph Rand, M.Ed, Extension Educator, Youth Development, University of Minnesota Extension and Blaine Kelley,Youth & Schools Coordinator, OutFront Minnesota.
REGISTRATION: The Link to Registration includes a list of sites near you.
No Site Address? We will update site addresses as identified. Hosts will also email participants before the event.
No Site Near You? Email anna.lynn@state.mn.us to confirm if one is currently available or to become a host.
Other Questions? Email anna.lynn@state.mn.us