Each February we celebrate the achievements, contributions, and history of African Americans as part of Black History Month. Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) - Founders of Black History Month | Origins, history, resources, and how to celebrate Santa Cruz Public Libraries | Book Lists and Special Programming GLSEN | Erasure and Resilience: The Experiences of LGBTQ Students of Color Our Trans Truth | Black Trans Joy Zine, Spring 2024 "Black Queer History is American History" - GLAAD … [Read more...]
We Must stand United in Support of our Immigrant Community
In partnership with CAB, Community Bridges, and Watsonville Law Center, the Santa Cruz County Office of Education (SCCOE) launched a resource site to help keep our immigrant students, families, and community members informed about their rights and how to access legal and support services when needed. Visit the site to learn more: https://susderechos.info … [Read more...]
2025 Queer Youth Leadership Awards Nominations Open Jan 28 – Feb 28
The Queer Youth Task Force of Santa Cruz County is seeking to honor local lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, two-spirit (LGBTQIA2S+) youth and their allies at the 2024 Queer Youth Leadership Awards (QYLA)! Eligible awardees are those who have shown outstanding leadership, academic excellence, or community engagement as a LGBTQIA2S+ youth under the age of 18, or as an ally to LGBTQIA2S+ youth. Allies to LGBTQIA2S+ youth may be a straight youth, or can also be a straight or LGBTQIA2S+ adult. We ask each … [Read more...]
Weekly/Monthly Queer & Trans Youth Programs
The Diversity Center Youth Program, Santa Cruz County The Diversity Center’s Youth Program offers support to teens, families, and schools on issues of gender, sexuality, acceptance, and overcoming discrimination. Check out Diversity Center Youth Program for the most up to date information about meet dates, times, and programming. Rainbow Kids Circle (Ages 5 - 11) - Meets the First Saturday of the Month Rainbow Kids Circle is a monthly 90 minute playgroup for gender diverse, LGBTQ+ kids and allies ages 5-10 and their families. … [Read more...]
Reminders
Scholarship opportunities for LGBTQIA2S+ youth In November, Queer Youth Updates shared 9+ scholarships opportunities for local youth. Miss the email or want to share? check it out here! Holiday Self-Care Tips and Resources for Youth The holidays can be a difficult time for LGBTQIA2S+ youth, here are some resources to help you or a friend. Queer and Trans Wellness Resources & Holiday Self Care Tips - GSA Network Holiday Self-Care Tips for LGBTQ Youth - The Trevor Project Going Home for the Holidays...Or Any Days … [Read more...]
LGBTQIA2S+ News
"Epicenter celebrates 10 years of making a difference in the lives of Salinas youth" - The Californian "In a cozy old house with rooms decorated with colorful posters and pictures of smiling faces, the staff at Epicenter are ready to celebrate. Ten years ago, what started as a program supporting foster youth, has expanded to become a vital destination for all youth who need a safe space and a helping hand. In their decade of service, Epicenter has grown to include programs for youth experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity and … [Read more...]
Upcoming Youth Programs & Events @ The Diversity Center, Santa Cruz
Rainbow Kids Circle, Dec 7 Rainbow Kids Circle is a monthly 90-minute playgroup for gender diverse, LGBTQ+ kids and allies ages 5-11, and their families. The group meets on the first Saturday of each month. For more information about the meeting date, time, and location please contact rainbowkidscircle@gmail.com. When: Saturday, December 7 Where: TBD - Email for details Ages: 5-11 Crafternoon for LGBTQ+ Teens, Dec 7 Get ready to express yourself and make your mark on a powerful community project! We’re creating a modern … [Read more...]
Upcoming Youth Programming @ The Epicenter, Salinas
Upcoming EDI Educators Youth Programming, Santa Cruz
Join us for end of year celebrations and previews of 2025 events! December at CAFACC includes movie nights, a solstice bonfire field trip, a potluck lunch, a food drive, a mega clothing swap, learning to crochet at the library, kirigami, and more- plus, we're open as a free hangout space with snacks and movies. We can't wait to wrap 2024 with you! Learn more by following us on socials, checking out the community calendar at cafilmculture.org, or just coming by! … [Read more...]
GSA Network | Statewide Campaign Committee Application, Due: December 13
GSA Network is currently accepting applications for our Statewide Campaign Committee, open to youth ages 13-18 in California. Committee members will develop a Statewide GSA Issue Agenda, and support Trans, Queer & Two-Spirit+ youth local GSA or youth-led campaigns. An educational award will be offered to those selected. Applications are due December 13, 2024. Apply here: gsanetwork.org/educational-award-program-application … [Read more...]