New Hampshire (NH) LGBTQ+ youth face significant challenges, with many regularly encountering anti-LGBTQIA+ remarks and victimization at school, according to a 2021 survey conducted by GLSEN. These experiences can create barriers to learning, growth, and overall well-being. Despite progress, including anti-discrimination laws, gaps in awareness and access to resources, especially in rural areas persist, making it critical to build safe, affirming spaces where LGBTQI+ youth can thrive.
The Importance of Safe and Inclusive Spaces
Representation, interaction, and acceptance are vital for creating environments where LGBTQIA+ youth feel valued and supported. Seeing their identities reflected in their community and connecting with allies helps foster belonging and resilience. Parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals play a crucial role in understanding these challenges and using available resources to promote inclusivity.
Resources to Support NH LGBTQIA+ Youth
Raising awareness starts with understanding the resources available! We’ve gathered a list of NH organizations and tools to help you create safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth and share this knowledge within your community. Several organizations and services in NH help create safe spaces and offer support:
- Services and Support: Seacoast Outright provides youth programs, workshops, and safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ teens and their families.
- Education and Advocacy: PLFAG NH offers education and advocacy to help families support LGBTQIA+ loved ones.
- School Support Services: GSAs in schools provide peer support and advocacy opportunities, while organizations like the Trans Youth Equality Foundation offer resources tailored to transgender and nonbinary youth.
Health Care Resources
Finding affirming health care can be challenging, but resources like GLMA’s Provider Directory and NH e-based LGBTQIA+ Affirming Care connect individuals with inclusive providers offering primary care, mental health services, and gender-affirming care. Prioritizing inclusive care ensures LGBTQIA+ folks feel respected and supported when seeking out the health care they need.
Youth Support Services
- GSAs (Gender & Sexuality Alliances): Many NH schools, including Manchester and Concord school districts, have active GSAs that provide peer support, advocacy opportunities, and safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ students to connect and build community.
- Trans Youth Resources: Organizations like Seacoast Outright and the Trans Youth Equality Foundation (based in Portland, Maine but serving NH youth) offer guidance on name changes, identity affirmation, and other resources tailored to the needs of transgender and nonbinary youth. Programs like these help create safer, more supportive pathways for LGBTQIA+ young people.
How You Can Make a Difference
Creating inclusive communities starts with intentional actions:
- For Allies: Use inclusive language, attend LGBTQIA+ events, and support LGBTQIA+-owned businesses.
- In Schools and Workplaces: Promote GSAs, implement safe space training, and address bullying with actionable policies.
- For Professionals: Make LGBTQIA+-specific resources visible and accessible to those who need them.
Moving Forward
NH has made progress, but there’s still work. By raising awareness, advocating for change, and fostering inclusivity, we can ensure every LGBTQIA+ individual has the opportunity to thrive. Explore additional resources on our LGBTQ+ Resources section to learn more, connect with local organizations, and help build a more inclusive future.