In today’s climate, allyship is as important as ever.
You may have seen recent discourse regarding anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in states like Texas and Florida. As mental health advocates and supporters of the LGBTQ+ community, the Robbie’s Hope legislative team monitors these issues.
National surveys have proven that LGBTQ+ identifying individuals are twice as likely to struggle with mental illness. Being comfortable in your own skin is vital to your mental health and your self-image can be heavily influenced by the ideological and political landscape of your community.
A piece of legislation was recently passed in Florida that activists have dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. This law prohibits discussion about gender identity and sexual orientation within primary schools.
In Texas, Governor Abbott ordered state officials to investigate the families of transgender youth. This could lead to the criminalization of gender-affirming care, and could introduce legal consequences to the parents of transgender youth under child abuse charges.
Actions like these, among others, can endanger LGBTQ+ youth. This is why it is crucial to extend support to anyone in your community who may be struggling. In both Texas and Florida, LGBTQ+ visibility is being threatened. As allies and mental health advocates, we urge you to reach out to those affected by this legislation. Keep in mind that, while your state might not be directly connected, homophobic and anti-LGBT acts like this can harm the LGBTQ+ community as a whole.
Want to take action?
If you feel strongly about protecting transgender youth and their families in the state of Texas, visit this link to send a personal email to Governor Abbott. To follow LGBTQ+ public policy and legislature, refer to the Human Rights Campaign for frequent updates.
If you, a friend, or a family member are acutely struggling during this time, we encourage you to access these LGBTQ-specific resources provided by The Trevor Project: Chat, Call, or Text
As always, for immediate help, refer to the suicide hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Article written by Sophia Lisco, Robbie’s Hope Intern.
