Rochester LGBTQ+ Together reaffirms our belief that all youth and young adults, including those who identify as LGBTQIA2S+, deserve to be accepted, affirmed, safe and supported, in their homes, their schools and everywhere. Far too often lately, bigots are using “protecting our children” as a false justification to actually cause them harm, making them feel unwelcome or othered, damaging their educational experience, and attempting to erase their existence or identities. Books, drag performers, pronouns, LGBTQ+ or Black history, and the Statue of David don’t harm or kill kids; bullying, harassment, hate and gun violence do. Society must commit to keeping all youth and young adults emotionally, mentally and physically safe, especially those who are LGBTQIA2S+ and often more marginalized and vulnerable. We demand that our leaders keep kids safe! They all deserve to live long, happy, authentic lives!
