It Takes Courage to Be Who You Are.

Growing up isn’t easy, especially when you are trying to affirm and assert your sexual orientation and/or gender identity. It can be a challenging and isolating process, especially in rural areas of Louisiana – we know it takes courage to come out and be who you are. #ItTakesCourage is a social media campaign to provide hope and encouragement to young LGBTQ+ Louisianans, especially trans and gender non-conforming youth.

We envision a Louisiana free from discrimination where all LGBTQ+ youth are free to live equally and know their worthiness as individuals and collective power as a community. #ItTakesCourage seeks to uplift, empower, and connect LGBTQ+ youth around Louisiana through positive messaging and storytelling through social media. We want to connect young LGBTQ+ Louisianans to stories of hope, resilience, and determination, as told by members of the local queer community and their allies.

We believe every moment of courage should be celebrated. And we are here to uplift your voice and cheer you on.

We seek to build community both locally and statewide to cultivate a growing network of allies (non-profits, healthcare, corporate, elected officials) that support LGBTQ+ human rights in their spaces, parishes, and State, engage with LGBTQ+ Louisianans both on and offline, and connect them to local community service providers that can provide on-the-ground assistance.

We want to build a robust online resource that centers on inclusive employment opportunities, healthcare providers, community resources (e.g., housing, aging, parenting), and places of faith.

Got Questions?

For questions about #ItTakesCourage, email SarahJane Guidry at sarahjane@forumforequality.org