Dear John,

Pride Month was born from resistance against police violence harming LGBTQ communities of color and specifically targeting trans women. One brick thrown in Stonewall Inn set off the historic movement for LGBTQ equality.

During this Pride Month, we’ve seen the impact of youth-led advocacy and LGBTQ activism driving systemic change. Today, the National Women’s Law Center is excited to share Brick by Brick: Building LGBTQ Advocacy. This advocacy curriculum is the first-of-its-kind project designed to build and inspire current and future advocates and activists.

We know that for far too long, the histories, experiences, and identities of LGBTQ people of color have not been centered in our schools, in our communities, or in our history books.

Brick by Brick speaks to the experiences and identities of LGBTQ+ students of color and can be adapted to suit a variety of learning settings (classroom, GSA club, or anything else!). It includes “know-your-rights” education, histories that are not commonly shared or centered, assignments that encourage students to take on roles as advocates and leaders, and individual and group projects. It makes use of multiple forms of media for experiential learning. Brick by Brick teaches students how to work toward change in their schools, and in the world beyond. We encourage you to read and share the curriculum after the launch party. And don’t miss out on our virtual launch party on Thursday, June 25!

Youth advocates partnered with us to develop and launch this curriculum, thanks to the collaboration of Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders (SMYAL). Their brilliance, insight, and expertise have strengthened the resource for students nationwide.

Let’s continue to celebrate and uplift the legacies of queer and trans people of color.

In solidarity,
Kirstin Brockenborough (she/her)
Manager of Campaign and Digital Strategies
National Women's Law Center