Trump ends funding for LGBTQ youth option on national suicide hotline
U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly ended funding for the option on the national suicide hotline dedicated to LGBTQ youth, prompting concern over the impact on America's vulnerable young people.
LGBTQ youth struggle
The move comes after a wave of state legislation aimed at restricting teaching about gender identity and sexual orientation in schools, prompting fears that young people struggling with their sexuality could be left without adequate support.
Increase in suicide attempts
Researchers and mental health workers have pointed to a significant increase in suicide attempts among LGBTQ youth since 2016, which they attribute in part to political shifts and a more hostile climate.
A threat to the health of the nation
Dr. Jillian Roberts, a child psychologist, spoke to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, saying that "any time we see policy or legislation or regulations that roll back the rights of minority or marginalized populations, it's a concern," she said.
Mr. Trump has previously been criticized for his administration's rollback of LGBTQ rights and protections.
LGBTQ supporters outraged
The White House and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which oversees the suicide hotline, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
But supporters of the LGBTQ community, meanwhile, vowed to keep fighting for their rights.
Despite the setbacks, "there is a tremendous amount of innovation and acceleration of equality," Patrick Roughneen, senior director of programs for the Matthew Shepard Foundation, told the CBC.
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