Rise Up for Youth Coalition Statement
The rights of youth are at risk, and as a coalition of organizations dedicated to supporting and centering the rights of 2STLGBQIA+ youth, BIPOC youth, and youth with disabilities, we have been meeting in the lead-up to this election to strengthen our coordination and ensure that young people know we are here for them—today, tomorrow, and every day.
The issues in this election are a direct threat to the safety, rights, and futures of 2STLGBQIA+ youth, BIPOC youth, and youth with disabilities. We are deeply concerned about the impact this will have on our community. We will need to continue to fight for progress against the status quo – regardless of who is elected,
Let us be clear: we will not back down. We will not be silenced. In the face of hate, fear, and political attacks, we remain committed to fighting for a world where 2STLGBQIA+ youth, BIPOC youth, and youth with disabilities can live authentically, safely, and joyfully.
We want 2STLGBQIA+ youth, BIPOC youth, youth with disabilities, and those living at the intersections of these identities to know: we’ve got your back and we’re here to work for and with you!
Our coalition has come together because we are stronger united. We’ve pooled our resources and have deepened our collective commitment to protecting and uplifting queer and trans youth, BIPOC youth, and youth with disabilities. We are sharing programs, coordinating efforts, and ensuring that no young person feels alone or unsupported.
We encourage you to find your people, understand your rights, get connected, and to know you’re not alone.
We are in this together, and we’re not going anywhere. No election, no politician, no hate-fueled agenda will stop us from fighting with and for you. Together, we will build a future where 2STLGBQIA+ youth, BIPOC youth, and youth with disabilities can thrive—where their joy is an act of resistance and their authenticity is celebrated.
To the youth: we see you, we love you, and we will never stop fighting for you.
To the adults: this is your moment to step up, to be the ally that 2STLGBQIA+ youth, BIPOC youth, and youth with disabilities deserve.
Our coalition stands united in our commitment to this fight, and we call on every person who believes in justice to join us in protecting and empowering our youth.
Statement Signers Name and Logos: Education Justice Coalition of VT, Planned Parenthood Vermont Action Fund, Third Space Partners, Mosaic Vermont, Queer Connect, Vermont Student Anti-Racism Network, Voices for Vermont's Children, Vermont Network, The Root Social Justice Center, Pride Center of Vermont, ACLU of Vermont, Migrant Justice, Outright Vermont, Rutland NAACP
Rise Up for Youth Coalition is a network of organizations united to support and protect young people from the impacts of today’s challenging political and social climate. Together, we provide critical resources, advocacy, and safe spaces that help youth navigate their lives and thrive amid rising threats to their rights, identity, well-being and existence. We work alongside young people to ensure that they have access to the care, support, and opportunities they deserve.
The opportunity to sign onto the statement is rolling. Please go to outrightvt.org/rise-up-for-youth-coalition to learn more.
