A Seat at the Table for LGBTQI+ and non-LGBTQI+ Youth is the third resource of the LGBTQI+ Youth Net project. Our focus is to tackle the rise in online anti-LGBTIQ hate speech, which affects the mental health and well-being of vulnerable youths. We are delighted to have gathered youth educators, youth workers, allies, and people from the LGBTQI+ community to discuss the needs in our community. Our first meeting was online in December, so we met in person in Leitrim a week ago for our second gathering even with the bad weather arriving the next day.
Our European partnership sees a pressing need for innovative and inclusive educational models that address LGBTQI+ online hate speech. At the same time, we feel we can equip youth with the skills to navigate digital platforms safely, confidently, and together against hate. This resource empowers young people and educators by providing a discussion space and networking room. Moreover, an online Digital Hub will also assist in achieving this virtually. Our hub will facilitate knowledge sharing and peer support. In addition, we are producing a guidebook for setting up the youth assemblies. We are accomplishing four such assemblies in the partnership countries which we are very excited about. These assemblies will develop action plans to combat online anti-LGBTIQ hate speech. The result will be resilience and digital skills among young people. We want to enhance teaching strategies for youth educators and youth workers too.
The third assembly will happen next month with current participants, and welcome new ones who wish to join our dialogue. We will review our list of needs for LGBTQI+ young people in our communities. Furthermore, brainstorm more ideas for an action plan at the end of the month. Momentum will showcase our innovative training course that provides essential learning material for educators and workers in the field. Let’s come together in solidarity with our young LGBTQI+ community. We invite those interested to contact Lola for more information at lola@momentumconsulting.ie
