Gender and Sexual Diversity in Youth

Gender and sexuality are central features of identity development in adolescence. When a person’s internal experience of gender and/or sexuality does not match what would typically be expected of them based on their external appearance, it can cause great distress and difficulty. This workshop explores social and developmental experiences of gender and sexual diverse youth, and shows helpers affirming ways to support youth in these situations and within their identities. Participants will develop an awareness and understanding of the systemic and intersectional barriers gender and sexual diverse youth can experience, enabling helpers to create more affirming, accessible, and welcoming environments for youth who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, Two-Spirit, queer, and all individuals expressing the diversity of sexuality and gender.