June 24, 2025

Pride Month is a time of joy, reflection, and unwavering affirmation. It’s a celebration of identity, love, and the resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. At McCall, we recognize the importance of not only celebrating this vibrant community, but also showing up for LGBTQ+ youth in meaningful, everyday ways.
We know that LGBTQ+ young people continue to face unique challenges—but we also know that the support of even one accepting adult can make a life-saving difference. That’s why McCall’s Prevention Services is committed to fostering safe, inclusive environments where every young person feels seen, valued, and free to be their authentic self.
So, how can we all be part of that change? Here are five simple, powerful actions you can take to uplift LGBTQ+ youth—not just during Pride Month, but every day:
- Listen to LGBTQ+ youth. Young people want to be heard and understood. When we listen without judgment—really listen—we give them the space to share their stories, express their emotions, and feel validated. Even small conversations can build trust and connection.
- Be a role model for kindness and inclusion. Whether it’s standing up to a harmful joke or showing empathy when someone shares their experience, modeling inclusive behavior sets the tone for others. Your actions let LGBTQ+ youth know that they are safe and supported.
- Show young people they can be authentic around you. A warm smile, open-mindedness, and respectful curiosity go a long way. Affirming their identity—whether through language, pronouns, or simply showing interest in their lives—sends the powerful message: “You don’t have to hide who you are.”
- Take action at the local level. Support inclusive school policies, attend community Pride events, or help create safe, welcoming spaces where youth can connect and thrive. Every local effort makes a difference, and together, they add up to lasting change.
- Stay informed and get involved. Laws and policies are changing quickly. Staying educated and engaged helps ensure that your voice—and your vote—contributes to a more just and compassionate future.
Organizations like the Human Rights Campaign, GLSEN, PFLAG, and The Trevor Project offer valuable resources to help you take your support even further.
At McCall, we are proud to stand with the LGBTQ+ community. Our Prevention Services team works year-round to promote mental wellness, reduce risk, and ensure that all young people feel a sense of belonging. Together, we can create communities where every youth is celebrated for exactly who they are.
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available:
- The Trevor Project (24/7 crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth)
Call: 866-488-7386 | Text: 678-678 | Chat here - Trans Lifeline (peer support from trans volunteers)
Call: 877-565-8860 - 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (free and confidential mental health support)
Call or text: 988
* Please note: As of July 17, 2025, the option to press 3 (or text “PRIDE”) to connect directly with counselors trained to support LGBTQ+ youth will be discontinued. While the prompt structure will change, anyone who calls the Lifeline will continue to receive compassionate, dedicated help. Click here to read SAMHSA’s official statement regarding Option 3.
This Pride Month, let’s celebrate with compassion and courage—and recommit to building a world where every young person knows they belong.
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