In the wake of election results, many people are finding themselves flooded with difficult emotions. The core issue here is not politics, as many suggest, but rather matters of human rights. Many people are hurting as they struggle to process what this election means for themselves, those they love, and members of at-risk populations. When fear and heartache come to visit, it’s only right to feel heavy and unsure of how to move forward. It is imperative to take care of yourself and those you love during this trying time. If you or the youth in your life are feeling sadness, I encourage you to sit with your grief and allow it to share its presence with you. Find comfort in those you love. Once our grief has been tended to, we will brush ourselves off, hold our heads high, and continue our work to ensure safety love and acceptance for all.
The impact of political outcomes has many of our LGBTQ+ members fearing for their sense of safety and belonging. Now is a critical time for allies, parents, educators, and peers to come together to offer tangible support.
Why Post-Election Support Matters
It is essential to recognize that proposed policies, harmful rhetoric, and disturbing shifts in social climate that have emerged during this election cycle imparticular have a significant impact on LGBTQ+ youth. When elections center on issues like gender identity, sexual orientation, gender-affirming care, comprehensive and inclusive sex-edication, reproductive rights, and personal freedoms, it feels deeply personal and even threatening to many young people. Especially those who are already navigating a world where they often feel misunderstood or marginalized.
Post-election periods, especially those that come with potentially harmful changes to marginalized groups heighten the fears and sense of vulnerability felt by LGBTQ+ youth. For youth who are exploring and striving to understand, accept, honor, and celebrate their identities, hearing harmful rhetoric and seeing legislation that targets their rights often causes or exacerbates intense feelings of fear, anxiety, and depression. Now more than ever, it is crucial to create a space where they feel safe, heard, and validated.
Ways to Support LGBTQ+ Youth Post-Election
- Listen and Validate Feelings
Do not negate their concerns or minimize their feelings. Youth need to know that their concerns, fears, and worries are valid and their existence and their experiences matter. The most important thing you can do as an ally is to listen. Simply saying, “I hear you, and your feelings are important” can go a long way in providing comfort. - Create Safe Spaces
Whether you are a parent, teacher, or mentor, ensure that your environment is a safe space where LGBTQ+ youth can be themselves without fear of judgment. This might mean having open conversations about current events and letting them know that your support is unconditional. It can also mean creating physical spaces—whether at home, in classrooms, or in community centers—where inclusivity is celebrated. Openly show your support, and do not allow hate and discrimination to occur in your spaces. - Be Mindful of Media Consumption
Surrounding ourselves with constant reminders of news that is upsetting to us is not helpful to our mental health. Encourage youth to take breaks from social media and the news if it starts to feel too intense. Help them to find balance by engaging in activities that bring them joy and relief, such as hobbies, creative outlets, or spending time in nature. While it is important to stay informed, it is equally important to know when to step away. - Use Your Voice and Platform
As an ally, support doesn’t stop at listening. Continue to use your voice to advocate for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth. Whether that means speaking up against discriminatory remarks, supporting inclusive policies, or simply being a visible ally, living our support in action does make a difference and reminds our community that this is an important cause that we are fighting together. Young people look up to the adults in their lives, and seeing the adults in their lives stand up for them is incredibly empowering. - Encourage Connection and Community
Encourage LGBTQ+ youth to connect with others who share similar experiences. Finding a community can be a powerful antidote to feelings of isolation. Whether it’s through local LGBTQ+ youth groups, online support networks, or inclusive clubs at school, having a support system is crucial. Organizations like PFLAG and The Trevor Project offer excellent resources and support.
Looking Forward with Hope
While the aftermath of an election can feel overwhelming for many, it’s important to help LGBTQ+ youth focus on the progress that has been made and the hope for a brighter, more inclusive future. Remind them that while political landscapes shift, the fight for equality and acceptance is ongoing, and they are not alone.