Hi John,

As a teacher and a gay man who survived high school, I know how important it is for all of us to show up in support of LGBTQ+ youth. And I know how powerful LGBTQ+ youth are when they raise their voices.

In less than a week, you will have a chance to make your voice heard and make your community safer for LGBTQ+ youth for the next four years and for generations to come. With pride and dignity, let’s do everything we can to use our votes to demand the change we know must happen.

I’m proud to partner with GLSEN to remind you of one crucial thing you can do today. Make a plan to vote -- and commit to casting your ballot. 

Many may try to convince you your vote won’t count. That’s just not true. We can demand more protections and real investment to make our schools, our homes, and our community spaces safer for LGBTQ+ youth. We must demand an end to attacks on our most vulnerable students, including trans and non-binary students of color. Voting for candidates who will hold the line on LGBTQ+ rights is a vital way to do that. 

Are you voting in person before or on Tuesday? If so, look up where you can vote and who is on your ballot.

And make sure your friends and family plan to do the same! Text five people you love and tell them to visit glsen.org/vote - they can look up where to vote or pledge to vote in the future if they are under 18 years old. 

I am so glad GLSEN called me in to elevate the importance of voting. GLSEN has a thirty year history fighting for young LGBTQ+ people. My reminder to you today to #RespectYourVote is part of a long and successful history. We make change when we come together and take action when our rights and well-being are on the line. Let’s make history together this November and vote.

Chasten Buttigieg
(he, him, his)