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July is Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Month. We know school communities and policies that prioritize mental health literacy can create safer spaces where all young people can thrive—especially BIPOC students, who face disparities in mental health care. We hope you’ll commit to reducing stigma and advocating for policy change in your school, this month and year-round.

As real people with real experiences who have shaped and will continue to shape U.S. culture and society, Black LGBTQ people are not political wedge issues. The insidious combination of racism and queerphobia can seriously affect the mental health of our LGBTQ youth of color, especially amid the political attacks on human rights through efforts to control bodily autonomy including reproductive rights and identity. Beyond celebrations of Pride Month and Juneteenth, we must all work to provide space for Black LGBTQ people.

It’s essential to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and to affirm practices for wellness—especially during Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Month. These LFJ resources remind us of the ongoing impact of racism and bias and provide recommendations to support adults in helping young people during these polarizing times.