The first time that I told someone I was gay was the summer between my freshman and sophomore years in high school. I knew I was “different” from an early age and as I became more aware of thoughts and feelings I, like many, did all sorts of things to hide what I assumed was “wrong” or “shameful.” My story of coming out is more about some very close friends at the time sensing something in who I was that, to them, wasn’t something to hide from others. I consider myself fortunate. While I was teased and called names by some, I never felt alone, scared or in danger. My family did the best they could to offer me support and love at a time when their primary understanding of being gay was shaped by the AIDS epidemic. The reality for many LGBTQ kids, however, is sadly and tragically different.
June is Pride Month where we celebrate the beautiful diversity, struggle for justice and importance of inclusion and representation for the rainbow that is the LGBTQ+ community. But beyond the parades, rainbows, flags and celebrations there are young people who struggle every day as a result of beliefs, actions and words that deny their very existence. Many of the resources below raise awareness and provide an opportunity to learn more about how to support and encourage our LGBTQ+ youth in ways that honor, respect and celebrate their lives, perspectives and experiences.
Happy Pride!
-Brandon
Brandon Beachamp, Ed.M., LMHC
Director, School Mental Health Resource and Training Center (Mental Health Association in New York State)
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