GLBT Teen Rights and Activism
There are many ways that GLBT teens can make their voices heard. Starting a GSA, speaking out about heterosexual privilege and participating in Gay Pride activities are a just a few.
In 1996 the Clinton administration introduced the idea of abstinence-only education. When Bush took office in 2000, he massively expanded the program. As a result teens have been subject to a lot of inaccurate propaganda. Though it has been stalled in committee for years, if it passes, a sex education bill called the REAL Act could actually help teens stay safe.
Learn which equal rights are still denied to gay people.
Advocates For Youth fights for reproductive and sexual health through education and advocacy.
Gay teens should be protected under the law just like anyone else. But sometimes the rights of GLBT students are not respected. Luckily, the American Civil Liberties Union runs something called the LGBT Project's Youth & Schools program to address gay teen rights.
Harvey Milk was the first gay man to be elected to a political position. He was murdered a year into his term.
Federal hate crime laws do include sexual orientation. However, only 24 states have laws specifically protecting sexual orientation under their hate crime laws.
The Boy Scouts of America do not allow gay troop leaders or scouts in their organization. It is important for them to hear that this is unacceptable discrimination.
Same sex marriage isn't just a modern idea.
Teens may feel that the debate surrounding same-sex marriage is an adult issue that doesn't apply to them. However, civil rights are everyone's concern.
Gay and same sex marriage information from About's guide to lesbian life.
A wealth of information on historical and contemporary issues affecting gay rights from About's guide to gay life.
Read the story of a lesbian teen activist in the magazine,
Teen Voices.
