Alister Womack, Ashley Morrison, Brian Kunde
LGBTQIA+ youth deserve to see themselves in the stories they read and the lessons they learn. Multiple studies have shown the importance of LGBTQ-related resources and inclusive curricula for queer students’ sense of safety and belonging. Libraries – whether in schools, communities, or homes – are powerful tools for encouraging queer youth to explore their identities and histories. Three of Out Youth’s past and present librarians will join us to discuss strategies to make libraries a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ youth, queering the stacks, and responding to parent and community backlash.
Resources Mentioned
Mishkan Ga'avah: Where Pride Dwells (Book about LGBTQ Jewish Life and Ritual)
Trans+: Love, Sex, Romance, and Being You (Book by Kathryn Gonzales and Karen Rayne)
PET (Book by Akwaeke Emezi)
Rainbow Boys (Book by Alex Sanchez)