The LGBTQ+ Community has always been a part of us. They are valid and active members of society, not just today but ever since the world existed. There have been multiple protests and events for and by the community. Solely because a certain section of this world disregards them from being their true self. Multiple LGBTQ flags were raised, and slogans were chanted, but some just didn’t understand.
A 2016 Pew Research Center research found that almost everyone knows someone who is LGBTQ. While a 2022 Gallup poll found that the percentage of identifying as LGBTQ has steadily increased to more than 7%. Some people never think they need to emerge from their closet. Many LGBTQ persons are empowered and protected by legislation from an early age and by families and communities who accept them.
That metaphorical closet is still there. In reality, it’s rather large. It is found that more than 4 out of 5 LGBTQ people conceal their true identity from all or the majority of people.
Violence Against The Community
FBI records show a rise in the frequency of violence against LGBTQ people in recent years. Additionally, anti-LGBTQ legislation has been on the rise. After Roe v. Wade was overturned by the Supreme Court in June, advocates expressed fear about same-sex marriage. Several other LGBTQ rights would be the next items on the conservative justices’ agenda. LGBTQ persons continue to experience hatred in all facets of public life. Including social exclusion, bullying at school, marginalization at the workplace, and worse.
“One plausible cause is anti-LGBT prejudice at home, work, or school, which would make LGBT people particularly vulnerable to victimization in numerous areas of their everyday life.”
Bullying and harassment of LGBT youth are major issues in schools. Many kids, gay or straight, frequently experience verbal and physical abuse. What should be a secure environment for learning is frequently unsafe and lonely.
The Helpline
The National Survey on Sexual and Gender Diversity (ENDISEG) conducted a recent study. It indicates that 28.7% of Mexico’s LGBTQ population has contemplated or attempted suicide at some point in their lives.
On the occasion of National Coming Out Day (11th October), The Trevor Project in Mexico made an announcement. It’s a free, confidential, 24/7 digital crisis help service for LGBTQ youth. The crisis response services for LGBTQ adolescents will be available on TrevorChat, and TrevorText. Also through SMS texting, WhatsApp, and online chat, in Spanish.
“It’s incredibly inspiring to see our vision of providing life-affirming crisis services to LGBTQ young people beyond the U.S. Being realized today with our launch in Mexico. This is a major milestone in our goal to end the global public health crisis of LGBTQ youth suicide,” said Amit Paley (he/him pronouns), CEO & Executive Director of The Trevor Project.
For U.S. Crisis Services: If you or someone you know needs help or support, The Trevor Project’s trained crisis counselors are available 24/7. At 1-866-488-7386, via chat at TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help, or by texting START to 678678.
For Mexico Crisis Services: If you or someone you know needs help or support, The Trevor Project’s trained crisis counselors in Mexico are available 24/7. Via chat at TheTrevorProject.MX/Ayuda, via SMS by texting “Comenzar” to 67676, or via WhatsApp by texting 55 9225 3337.
While it is a shame that we as a society need such crisis services while we live in this modern world with advanced lifestyles. It is a good step for the well-being of the community.
Several little souls are out there, trying to figure themselves out- what and who they like. An adolescent mind races with questions, dilemmas, and confusions. If that mind is introduced to a shut-off, non-accepting world, they probably will build walls. Will never allow themselves to explore, ask, and accept.
Every one of those little souls deserves a world where they are accepted, appreciated, and acclaimed.
