ECPAT-USA recognizes June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month.


** Fighting For Equality And Against Exploitation
------------------------------------------------------------
ECPAT-USA recognizes June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month

In recognizing June as National Pride Month, ECPAT-USA acknowledges the challenges and inequalities the LGBTQ+ community has faced for decades. This month is a time to reflect on the ongoing work toward justice and acceptance. We have achieved a considerable amount of progress since the historic Stonewall Inn riots in June of 1969, ([link removed]) which marked a turning point in the fight for equal rights for the LGTBQ+ community, but there is still much work to be done.

As an organization that is dedicated to protecting children, ECPAT-USA knows that youth who identify as LGBTQ+ are at an increased risk of exploitation and trafficking ([link removed]) . LGBTQ+ youth are exposed to trauma from discrimination, poverty, homelessness, rejection from family members and peers, lack of access to health care and education. Of these risks, homelessness remains a critical concern. According to True Colors ([link removed]) , it is estimated that LGBTQ+ youth represent 7% of the U.S. population, yet account for 40% of youth homelessness. These homeless youth are even more susceptible to trafficking as predators seek them out.

Data of reportedinstances of sex trafficking ([link removed]) among LGBTQ+ youth is severely lacking, resulting in insufficient funding for preventative education, supportive services, or after-care. ECPAT-USA knows from these young people that exploitation and trafficking are happening now. In addition, traditional stereotypes about gender and identity reinforce the victimization of LGBTQ+ youth by creating an environment in which they are either ignored or silenced.

ECPAT-USA is committed to advocating for and advancing policies that uplift, strengthen and support LGBTQ+ individuals. It is incumbent upon the White House, Congress, and state legislatures to improve access to critical services that support trafficking survivors.
SUPPORT OUR PROGRAMS ([link removed])
[link removed]

ECPAT-USA is the leading policy organization in the United States seeking to end the commercial, sexual exploitation of children through awareness, advocacy, policy, and legislation. Join us ([link removed]) .

============================================================
** Facebook ([link removed])
** Twitter ([link removed])
** Link ([link removed])
** Website ([link removed])
Copyright © 2021 ECPAT-USA, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in at our website

Our mailing address is:
ECPAT-USA
86 Wyckoff Avenue #609
Brooklyn, New York 11237
USA
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can ** update your preferences ([link removed])
or ** unsubscribe from this list ([link removed])
.