Gay, lesbian, bisexual, transsexual, transgendered, intersexed, two-spirited and queer people are everywhere. We live in large urban areas and in rural communities. We come from every neighborhood. We are part of every kind of family. We are all ethnicities and come from all cultures. We work in every occupation. We have every kind of talent imaginable. And we are all ages.

There have always been youth who were queer. What’s different today is that many young people are able to recognize and name their feelings sooner. An increasing number are joining the growing movement of queer youth who are demanding recognition as well as fair and equal treatment. Queer youth are insisting that we be acknowledged and respected. We are creating successful lives filled with pride, friendship, love and satisfaction.