A Gallup survey released in February 2021 found that 5.6%, or about 18 million, of U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ, a record number. One of the key findings involved Generation Z adults, those ages 18 to 23, as one in six or 15.9%, identify as LGBTQ. And a September 2020 study by the UCLA School of Law Williams Institute estimates that 195,000 Texas youths aged 13–17 identify as LGBT.

In most localities, the month of June marks an annual celebration of LGBT Pride. According to the Library of Congress, Pride is traditionally celebrated each year in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan, a tipping point for the gay liberation movement in the United States. The first Pride event was a 1970 parade in New York City, with celebrations growing each year to recognize the impact LGBT individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.

Pride movements have grown along with recognition that visibility is key to inclusivity and helping LGBT individuals, especially youth, feel a sense of community and belonging. Supportive, positive environments are key to ensuring LGBTQ youth can thrive. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers a list of resources from various agencies and organizations to help LGBTQ youth and their friends, family, educators, etc., find the support they need.

In terms of Pride Month resources, check these out to learn more about LGBT history and youth outreach efforts:

• A list of resources from GLAAD
• Educational resources from the Anti-Defamation League
• The Human Rights Campaign’s list of Pride Month resources, playlists, fun activities, and more
• A variety of PBS Pride Month specials
• An assortment of articles from Edutopia, including how to support LGBTQ elementary students, ways to incorporate LGBTQ content in history lessons, how to support LGBTQ students who may not feel accepted at home, and ways other educators can better support LGBTQ teachers of color
• A compilation of information from the Library of Congress
• Educator and student resources from GLSEN, a national group of educators advocating for LGBT youth

Happy Pride!