With its new strategic direction, Basic Rights Oregon will launch a youth justice program in the future. The need for LGBTQ youth justice is immense. Of all youth experiencing houselessness, 20 percent are LGBTQ, while only 10 percent of the general youth population is LGBTQ. Moreover, LGBTQ youth experiencing houselessness are more likely to experience victimization, mental health issues, and to have to turn to sex work for survival.
Interested family members should also consider joining our Fierce Families Network advocacy group, which is made up of families who are advocating for transgender family members and friends. Fierce Families also successfully worked on including George, an important book for transgender youth representation, in the Oregon Battle of the Books despite resistance from some anti-LGBTQ groups. Learn more about George on the Fierce Families page and here.
Here is a list of resources for youth experiencing houselessness or youth facing houselessness.
Statewide
GLSEN Oregon
Oregon Safe Schools & Communities Coalition
Central Coast
Central Oregon
Central Oregon Pride
Human Dignity Coalition
Central Oregon Community College Safe Zone
Eastern Oregon
EOU Gender and Sexuality Resource Center
Portland Metro
Bradley Angle
Janus Youth Programs
New Avenues for Youth/SMYRC
Outside In