LGBTQIA+ people have always been present in the field of youth work, leading efforts to uplift young people, especially those on the margins. Even though their efforts were often ignored, they made a big difference. And by their example, we can build on their progress.

As we strive to build more inclusive youth spaces, it’s essential to look back and learn how to keep moving forward. We can draw on the courage and commitment they’ve shown to reaffirm our own commitment to centering LGBTQ+ voices. This will help build a safer space for all young people.

LGBTQ+ trailblazers in youth work
From grassroots organizers to frontline educators, LGBTQIA+ individuals have long played vital roles in youth development and advocacy. They helped young people feel safe, seen, and strong. Some notable examples include:

• Bayard Rustin, a Black gay civil rights activist and mentor to young organizers. They championed nonviolent youth-led movements long before LGBTQ+ inclusion was widely accepted.
• Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon, lesbian activists who co-founded the Daughters of Bilitis in the 1950s. Later supported young LGBTQ+ individuals through counseling, publishing, and community support.
• During the AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s, LGBTQ+ youth workers were at the frontlines. They created peer education programs, safe sex workshops, and youth drop-in centers when few others would.
• In the 1990s, groups like GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network) and the Trevor Project began. Driven by LGBTQ+ leaders to offer unprecedented support to queer and questioning youth across the country.

These individuals and many others, often operating outside traditional systems, created lifelines for young people who had nowhere else to turn.

Knowing this history helps us understand how LGBTQ+ people helped build youth work. Next, it reminds us that their work made things better for everyone. Finally, it shows why we must keep their spirit alive in today’s programs.

How we can honor and build on this legacy

• Teach the history
  Find training for youth workers about LGBTQIA+ leaders and share what you learn with others. Encourage staff to share stories in training or group meetings to encourage learning.
• Save their stories
  Many LGBTQ+ youth workers have never seen their experiences documented. Highlight their stories to honor their voices and create intergenerational learning tools.
• Support LGBTQ+ youth workers today
  Many LGBTQ+ workers still face unfair treatment. Help them grow by offering safe spaces, strong rules, and leadership opportunities. Ensure you have hiring practices that support building a more diverse team reflective of the young people you serve.
• Offer more inclusive programs
  Reflect on your programs. Do they support all types of young people? Make sure there are safe spaces for trans, nonbinary, and LGBTQ+ youth of color.

Moving forward together

Queer leaders have always been part of youth work through mentoring and supporting young people, even when they weren’t fully seen or celebrated. Their presence is not new, and it has always mattered. By highlighting their stories, educating others, and acknowledging their ongoing impact, we help open community spaces. This is especially significant now, as fear and uncertainty are rising.

We’ve learned how LGBTQIA+ leaders have stood beside marginalized youth, building safer and more just spaces. It wasn’t always safe or easy for them to do so. But it is always the right thing to do. And they’re still here, leading, and making change.

In your work with young people take time to recognize LGBTQIA+ voices. Invite them into leadership. Share their stories. Make your space safer, more inclusive, and more aware.

Because when we uplift queer youth workers, we send a powerful message to young people. You belong here, and you are never alone.

For the well-being of young people, it’s so important to create inclusive spaces in your community. Check out YIPA’s intercultural awareness training Gender Literacy for Inclusive Youth Work to learn more.