I feel fortunate that I was able to find answers for my questions and struggles and wish to provide help for others who might not be as lucky as I was.

Alex works with Advocates for Youth and the Texas Freedom Network as a member of the Texas Youth Leadership Council.

I got involved in youth sexual health and rights activism my sophomore year of college. I was elected co-President of the GLTB and Allies organization of my campus and I had become more involved in a gay youth group in my city. Through that organization (Youth First Texas), I was introduced to TFN. I attended a workshop and seminar and used some of the issues that were brought up in my organizations. I am motivated by my own sense of wanting to contribute to gay youth and the gay community at large. Through my co-Presidency of Spectrum, I was introduced to a closeted student and I became a mentor for him. A friendship developed and we bonded so much we consider ourselves family, and through his questions and misconceptions about gay sex-ed and health, I reaffirmed the importance of broader sex-ed discussions. I found myself with another “gayby” (gay baby), a high-school senior and I am repeating the process of educating and helping shape someone’s future. I feel fortunate that I was able to find answers for my questions and struggles and wish to provide help for others who might not be as lucky as I was.

I’d love to see the day that every gayby had someone to answer their questions or allay their fears and misconceptions. I know too many kids that have gotten hurt or in trouble because they didn’t know how to take care of themselves and also I know youth who are afraid of their sexuality because they feel it’s wrong or dangerous. I want to see a world where there is a greater respect for sexuality and safe sex.

A lot of youth don’t feel comfortable speaking about their sexuality with adults and because of the distrust or misconception of a generational divide, it’s often easier for them to relate to youth near their own age. It’s also important for youth to campaign for the changes they wish to see. Youth presence legitimizes and empowers advocating youth rights.