No child should face rejection from their families or be left without a safe place to call home. But all too often, these experiences are the reality of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, or LGBT, youth across the United States. The staggering rates of homelessness among LGBT youth expose the failures of family support and social safety nets that are intended to protect these youth, with negative consequences for their health, safety, and educational and employment opportunities.
Over the past several years, new insights and data have been collected from all corners of the country, giving us a better understanding of who the LGBT homeless youth are, the issues they face, and the policies and practices being implemented to meet their needs. Based on this research, the Center for American Progress is releasing a new report on the experiences of LGBT youth living on the streets and in shelters.
Please join the Center for American Progress for the release of our most comprehensive report to date on homeless LGBT youth: “Seeking Shelter: The Experiences and Unmet Needs of LGBT Homeless Youth.” The event will bring together a panel of advocates, researchers, and practitioners to discuss the issues faced by LGBT homeless youth, as well as policy and practical approaches to ending LGBT youth homelessness. Join us for this in-depth discussion about ensuring safe and inclusive spaces for every LGBT youth.
Introductory Remarks:
Congresswoman Gwen Moore, D-WI
Distinguished Panelists:
Jama Shelton, Director, Forty to None Project, True Colors Fund
Shahera Hyatt, Executive Director, California Youth Homelessness Project
Pamela Sheffer, Program Coordinator, Just Us Program, Oasis Center
Joo Yeun Chang, Associate Commissioner, the Children’s Bureau
Moderator:
Laura Durso, Director, LGBT Research and Communications Project, Center for American Progress