ResourcesWe have a number of resources to offer you below. StatisticsIn the 1998 and 2000 Safe Schools Surveys done by the office of the Minnesota Attorney General, 49% of the teenage respondents identified "gay and lesbian students" as the most likely victims of violence in their schools. Statistics show that gay kids are up to four times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual kids are, and twice as likely to complete the attempt. They are more prone to drug and alcohol abuse, more likely to be the target of assault and harassment, more likely to drop out of school and to be thrown out of their parents' home. "Coming out" (revealing one's sexual orientation to be homosexual) to parents is one of the leading causes of homelessness among teenagers. All these problems are not because they are gay or lesbian, but are directly attributable to the disapproval, discrimination and hostility they encounter. It is very hard for young people to realize their full potential while facing rejection at home, at school, and in almost every public place for something that many researchers have determined to be innate. Even though it has been over 25 years since psychiatrists and psychologists deleted homosexuality from the list of mental illnesses, some people continue to view it as something sick and shameful, something best not spoken of. Demeaning or ignoring gays teaches gay kids to hide who they are and to hate themselves. We find that many adults in agencies serving youth realize that gay kids face tremendous stress and risk factors, but they don't know how they can help. If we do not speak out against gay bashing, we appear to condone the violence. Together presentations address audiences as potential allies, collaborating to think of the most influential ways they can help improve the social climate in which they live and work. Placing heterosexism in a political framework helps ease the sting of personal attacks. Young people need to hear that they are ok and don't deserve to be scapegoated, and they need a peer group. Building community and providing referrals to needed services is crucial to victims of cultural bias. In group we explore the similar causes and effects of racism, heterosexism, and sexism. We approach this topic through discussion, videos, and community speakers. We participate in celebrations of communities of color, joining in the Martin Luther King Day March and Rally, as well as other community events. By doing so we learn to understand and appreciate each other, and realize the value of working together to change our community for everyone's benefit. Resource DirectoryWe have compiled a list of local resources for your use. Please click here to get your copy (microsoft word format) LinksThe following are external links. Together for Youth is not responsible for their content.
Video and FilmEducational for young people
Gay plot or history
Lesbian plot or history
Transgender plot or history
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