Workshops

National Strategy For Black Gay Youth In America: Youth at Hope, Not At Risk

Frank Walker, YPS, DeAndre Roberts, YPS, DeAndre Preston, Code Red

The aim of the National Strategy is to improve the quality of the lives of black gay youth living in the United States. By organizing those 25 years of age and younger (alongside elected officials and youth serving agencies), who want to take part in positive activities and gain support that will improve their condition of life, to help develop and improve their physical (health), mental, emotional, social and educational wellbeing. This youth-led presentation will explore the goals of the strategy:

1. To promote community cohesion and create opportunities for black gay youth to engage with and be respected by the community
2. To identify culturally safe spaces and environments in every state to develop young people by empowering and inspiring them through positive activities, support and training and to recognize their achievements
3. To help Nation additional safe spaces and environments in traditional non-affirming institutions through practical experience and professional training
4. To ensure high quality services for black gay youth nationally and to promote the physical, intellectual, mental, emotional, social and well being of black gay youth, helping them achieve their full potential and aid their transition from youth to adulthood.

The second half will go over the results of the national youth survey completed by 2,500 black gay youth from all over the United States, with a special emphasis on the health related responses.