#protect our youth

[ivygorgon]

👰‍♀️Say NO to Child Marriages in America! Implement Standardized Marriage Age Laws

AN OPEN LETTER to THE PRESIDENT & U.S. CONGRESS; STATE GOVERNORS & LEGISLATURES

2 so far! Help us get to 5 signers!

I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the discrepancies and alarming loopholes in marriage age laws across the states and to advocate for action towards implementing a standardized marriage age of 18 nationwide, with strict provisions that prohibit underage marriage below 16 and set an age of consent not below 16. Additionally, I recommend setting a consent age gap provision that is no more permissive than at least 14 years old and up to five years older, further ensuring the safety and well-being of our youth.

It is alarming to note that four states—California, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Oklahoma—currently have no official minimum age for marriage but require parental consent or court approval. This inconsistency in laws creates dangerous loopholes that could be exploited by individuals seeking to harm or exploit minors. Allowing underage marriage below the age of 16 poses serious risks, including increased vulnerability to exploitation and abuse.

I urge you to take immediate steps towards implementing a consistent and protective legal framework by advocating for standardized marriage age laws across the nation.

Thank you for considering this urgent matter. I strongly believe that uniform marriage age laws are essential to safeguarding the rights and safety of young individuals and preventing potential harm.

Together, we can say NO to child marriage and child exploitation!

📱 Text SIGN PQDHSX to 50409

🤯 Liked it? Text FOLLOW IVYPETITIONS to 50409

[everythingseasoning]

19 year olds are so young— still so naive and have so much development to go through. They might think they’re smart enough to stay out of bad situations (like I had thought when I was 19), but they’re still kids in a number of ways. Brains don’t finish developing until mid-twenties. Just cause somebody isn’t a minor anymore doesn’t mean it’s okay to go after them! So weird to see older people (mid twenties and above) going after younger folks who are naive and inexperienced. So so so not okay. (It happens to so many girls). Like if you’re in your thirties, shouldn’t you want to nurture a younger person?? Like be PARENTAL. Not predatory. (I get why they’d want a younger person because of their own issues— I’m studying psychology— and I do my best to empathize with everyone, but… it’s not excusable). I’m literally 21 and I see anyone younger than me as a child— and arguably, I’m still a kid developmentally— because I’m still so naive and inexperienced and emotionally/mentally didn’t have parental figures…

And on the other hand: Even if somebody who is younger is super emotionally intelligent, they can have less experience within relationships and friendships and life, which makes them vulnerable to so much mistreatment of all kinds— each situation is nuanced. So especially if an older person is going for an emotionally smart 19 year old? God, the power imbalance is icky. The older person does know more about certain things and can manipulate the younger person. There is just a difference in experience man.

Another thing now no longer about age: if you are my age but have had really hard things happen to you when you were way too young/ you were not supported enough to understand it, but now you have been deeply wounded by those awful events, then you deserve to heal. And I wouldn’t take advantage of somebody in that vulnerable position. They need to become their own person first before I’d ever consider romance with them.

It’s so weird to see others chase romance, going for younger folks. Men all over the world go after young girls. They want to mold them to be their perfect little wives. It’s so… disgusting, really. And sad on all ends.

Oi.

[harmonyhealinghub]

Standing Together Against Violence: The Moose Hide Campaign

May 7, 2024

Shaina Tranquilino

In a world where the statistics of violence against women and children are staggering, there emerges a beacon of hope—a grassroots movement born out of Indigenous wisdom and solidarity: The Moose Hide Campaign. This powerful initiative rallies men and boys, alongside all Canadians, to stand up against the pervasive scourge of violence towards women and children.

The Roots of the Moose Hide Campaign

The Moose Hide Campaign traces its roots to a sacred journey undertaken by a father and son from the Carrier First Nation in British Columbia, Canada. In 2011, Raven Lacerte and her father Paul Lacerte embarked on a symbolic pilgrimage to heal the wounds of intergenerational trauma caused by violence against Indigenous women and girls. During this journey, they hunted a moose, and Paul made a commitment to carry a piece of moose hide wherever he went as a reminder of his responsibility to protect women and children.

Inspired by this profound experience, Paul and Raven Lacerte founded the Moose Hide Campaign, inviting men and boys from all walks of life to join them in solidarity against gender-based violence. What began as a personal vow transformed into a nationwide movement, fueled by the collective determination to create safer communities for all.

The Symbolism of the Moose Hide

Central to the Moose Hide Campaign is the symbolic significance of the moose hide. In Indigenous cultures, the moose holds spiritual significance as a symbol of strength, protection, and resilience. By wearing a piece of moose hide, participants pledge to honor and uphold traditional values of respect, love, and non-violence.

The act of wearing the moose hide becomes a visible declaration of one's commitment to stand against violence and to foster healthy relationships based on equality and mutual respect. It serves as a conversation starter, sparking dialogue and awareness about the prevalence of violence in our society and the urgent need for collective action.

Mobilizing Communities for Change

At its core, the Moose Hide Campaign is a grassroots movement that empowers communities to take a stand against gender-based violence. Through educational workshops, community gatherings, and awareness-building initiatives, the campaign fosters dialogue and collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including Indigenous leaders, government officials, law enforcement agencies, and grassroots organizations.

One of the signature events of the Moose Hide Campaign is the annual Moose Hide Gathering, where participants come together to share stories, learn from each other, and renew their commitment to ending violence. This event serves as a catalyst for positive change, inspiring individuals and communities to take concrete actions to prevent violence and support survivors.

The Impact and Legacy

Since its inception, the Moose Hide Campaign has made significant strides in raising awareness about the root causes of violence and promoting healthy, respectful relationships. By engaging men and boys as allies in the fight against gender-based violence, the campaign challenges harmful stereotypes and empowers individuals to become agents of change within their communities.

The impact of the Moose Hide Campaign extends far beyond its tangible achievements. It represents a powerful testament to the transformative power of grassroots activism and the enduring strength of Indigenous wisdom and traditions. As more individuals and communities join the movement, the Moose Hide Campaign continues to inspire hope and ignite a national conversation about building a future free from violence.

Joining the Movement

In a world where the epidemic of violence against women and children persists, the Moose Hide Campaign offers a ray of hope—a reminder that change is possible when we stand together in solidarity. Whether you're a man, a boy, or a supporter of gender equality, there are countless ways to get involved:

- Wear the moose hide pin as a visible symbol of your commitment to ending violence.

- Organize or participate in Moose Hide Campaign events in your community.

- Educate yourself and others about the root causes of violence and strategies for prevention.

- Advocate for policies and programs that support survivors and promote healthy relationships.

- Support Indigenous-led initiatives working to address the systemic factors that contribute to gender-based violence.

By taking action today, we can create a future where all women, children, and communities thrive in safety and dignity. Together, let's stand up, speak out, and make a difference with the Moose Hide Campaign.

www.moosehidecampaign.ca

[our-trans-punk-experience]

remembering nex benedict, one year on

Jan 11 2008 - Feb 8 2024

(Post was supposed to come out yesterday but got lost in drafts)

[our-trans-youth-experience]

Rest in Power, Nex Benedict

A 16 year old kid who loved nature and looking after their cat Zeus. Who enjoyed reading, watching the Walking Dead, and playing Ark and Minecraft. They loved to cook and would often make up their own recipes. They did well in school, being a straight-A student. Rest in power a teen who was human and had interests and ambitions and challenges and friendships. A trans youth who was brutally murdered just for being trans, when that was only a fragment of who they were as a person.

Nex Benedict, Jacob Williamson, Brianna Ghey, and other trans youth like them were real people with real lives. They deserved better, longer, happier lives. They deserved to grow up and not fear for their lives. They deserve to be remembered as who they were, not just as another trans kid who was killed, as people with families and normal human lives.

[weepyshark]

BEWARE WE BITE!

[election2024-2028]

Some things to do if you live in the United States as a queer person or a woman:

Learn self defense. You don't know whether someone will harm you. The idea that someone might is not far-fetched.

Stock up on contraceptives. Shelf life of plan B is four years. See this list for information about condom shelf life. These may become banned.

Buy queer books. As many as you can afford, starting with trans books. These may be banned soon.

Stock up on HRT medication if possible. This will likely be quickly banned when Trump becomes president. HRT meds have a shelf life of 1-3 years depending on the kind; check on the container! Read about DIY HRT here.

Read about what Trump and his followers are planning to do about abortion and other reproductive healthcare (i.e. contraception, etc.).

Read about what Trump and his followers plan to do about trans healthcare and rights for same-sex couples (I say same-sex instead of same-gender because they don't care about gender).

Teach your children (if you have any), siblings, friends, family, and especially other queer people and other women around you.

If you are too afraid to remain in danger, register for a passport as soon and look into countries you could move to. Look at what you'll have to do for jobs, living, a visa, citizenship, etc.

You may want to stock up on educational materials about prejudice, slavery, Native people, and other materials that may be censored.

As a reminder: This won't necessarily become a necessity. But based on the many things Trump and his supporters have said about the issue mentioned within this list, these actions will, unfortunately, probably be needed. Don't avoid taking these actions until it's too late. Do these before it's too late. Start now.

[finleyforevermore]

Discussions of death, suicide, overdose, transphobia, facism, and politics under the cut. Do not read if those are upsetting or triggering topics for you. Thank you.

A year ago, on this day, Nex Benedict passed away.

Nex was a Two-Spirit non-binary sophomore who attended Owasso High School. The day before his death, he was attacked by students who were making rude comments about him and his friend. When Nex retaliated by pouring water on them, the students physically assaulted him, beating Nex until they lost consciousness. Nex had scrapes and bruises following the fight and went to sleep that night with a sore head.

The next day, Nex collapsed in their living room, with their eyes rolled back and struggling to breathe.

Nex's death was declared a suicide by an overdose on Prozac and Benadryl, in spite of the fact that taking those medications rarely ever lead to death.

The actual cause of Nex's death remains up in the air; some people believe it was really suicide, others believe it was from the injuries sustained from the fight the day before.

And may i say; if it was a suicide, it was committed DUE to the bullying he suffered. Blood remains on the school's hands for doing nothing.

Their death remains nothing short of a tragedy, regardless of the cause. Nex was only 16 years old. He loved reading, nature, drawing, Minecraft, and their cat Zeus. They were a strong and tough person who hid behind those walls to earn respect, but deep down, he was a truly compassionate, sweet, and thoughtful person. They'd cook pancakes and chicken wings with mixed-up spice for their friend/ex-partner. Nex was deeply brave and extremely intelligent; lit up a room just from entering.

So much potential for an incredible life. Such a beautiful, deeply incredible and wonderful person. Someone who reminds me so much of so many of my friends.

And now he's gone.

He should have turned 17 on January 12th this year.

Their death has been mocked by people online, the Oklahoma superintendent himself, Ryan Walters, even went as far to insult and misgender Nex.

The Oklahoma governor even stated the following: "We are a Republican state - supermajority - in the House and Senate. I represent a constituency that doesn't want that filth in Oklahoma." What a monster.

But in spite of how deeply gut-wrenching and horrible this all is, we must continue to move forward and stay strong. With a racist, facist, sexist idiot currently in the oval office, and a Nazi essentially acting as right-hand man, now more than ever, queer people and queer allies must fight back. Let themselves be known. Not feel an ounce of regret or embarrassment for who they are. As hackneyed and trite of a statement it is, be yourself. Don't let any person stop you from being the beautiful individual you are.

It seems hopeless but that's what they WANT. They WANT you to give up hope and conform. But millions of our queer ancestors did not fight like hell for our rights, just so we could throw in the towel. They fought and they conquered. So can we.

Be brave. Be intelligent. Be a fighter. Be a conqueror. Be you. Nex was. So can you.

I love you, Nex.

I love you all.

So for me, and for him, say his name. And say it proud.

And say it LOUD.

NEX BENEDICT!

[gumjrop]

On Thursday, multiple school systems and representatives issued statements rejecting Trump’s executive order that directs schools to discriminate against transgender students or face legal consequences. The order, released Wednesday, labels transgender identity as an “anti-American ideology” and mandates discrimination in bathrooms and locker rooms while threatening teachers with criminal charges for supporting trans students’ social transitions. In response, school officials across the country are making it clear: they will not comply, and they remain committed to protecting the rights of their transgender students.

On Thursday, Julie Yang, President of the Montgomery County Board of Education in Maryland, issued a forceful response to Trump’s executive order in a mass email to families. Representing a school district of 160,000 students, Yang affirmed that Montgomery County would continue to recognize gender identity as a protected characteristic. “We stand by our community and school system values, which include learning, relationships, respect, excellence, and equity. They guide us every day and anchor us when navigating difficult times. We intend to use all legal means necessary to uphold them… We are committed to maintaining local authority over our curriculum, teaching, and learning. And we will fiercely support our teachers and staff as they implement our curriculum and policies.”

Email from MCPS

Harrisonburg City Public Schools Superintendent Michael Richards also issued a strong response to Trump’s executive order. The district was one of three specifically named in the order for its policies supporting transgender students. In his statement, Richards pushed back forcefully, saying, “The claims in their statement are false. We do not have a policy that violates anyone’s rights or indoctrinates children. What we do have is a culture of respect—one that honors the dignity and diversity of all students, families, and educators.”

Superintendent Richards, HCPS

San Francisco Unified School District also responded to Trump’s executive order, affirming that it would continue to embrace its diversity as a core strength. “This includes our district’s trans-identified students and all of our LGBTQ+ students and families,” the statement read. The district made clear that its core values would not change, emphasizing its commitment to supporting all students’ rights, including “addressing students using the name and pronoun that reflects who they are” and “providing access to school activities, spaces such as locker rooms and restrooms, and gender-neutral dress codes that fit with their gender identity.”

Superintendent John Thein, in an email to parents of the St. Paul Public Schools district, reaffirmed the district’s commitment to “respect, affirm, and welcome all students, staff, and family members.” He emphasized that the district would continue supporting students regardless of their minority status, explicitly including gender identity and sexual orientation. Thein closed the message with a quote from Martin Luther King Jr., underscoring the district’s stance on equity and inclusion.

Columbus City Public Schools in Ohio— a state that had already heavily targeted transgender students before Trump’s executive orders— delivered its own fierce message of resistance. In an interview with the Columbus Dispatch, Michael Cole, president of the school district, called Trump’s order a challenge and defiantly stated, “Bring it on.” He emphasized that the district has a “strong infrastructure in place” to support its students. Meanwhile, Scott DiMauro, president of the Ohio Education Association, condemned the order as an attempt to “instill fear and sow division in a way that is intended to try to stop educators from teaching the truth.”

As Trump’s executive orders take effect, the greatest immediate threat isn’t their legality—it’s premature compliance before they can be challenged in court. Most of these orders function more as legal intimidation tactics than enforceable law, relying on the chilling effect of DOJ threats to pressure hospitals, teachers, and institutions into abandoning transgender people before the legal process even begins. But resistance is already mounting. These school districts, and others, recognize the stakes and are refusing to fold, standing firm in their commitment to protect transgender students—students who lack the institutional power to fight back on their own against an administration determined to erase them.

Reed, Erin. “School Systems across US Declare They Will Not Comply with Trump’s Anti-Trans Executive Order.” School Systems Across US Declare They Will Not Comply With Trump’s Anti-Trans Executive Order, Erin In The Morning, 31 Jan. 2025, www.erininthemorning.com/p/school-systems-across-us-declare.

[forcepushthinker]

Even a single trans life lost is one too many!!!

[ivygorgon]

AN OPEN LETTER to STATE GOVERNORS & LEGISLATURES (ALASKA ONLY)

Out-ing Minority Students to Their Abusers - Safeguards needed in HB 382

I am writing to express my profound concerns regarding the proposed HB 382 legislation: Out-ing Minority Students to Their Abusers, which aims to involve parents in the education process but may inadvertently expose vulnerable LGBTQ+ students, and others, to harmful environments. As any survivor of domestic violence is acutely aware; ensuring the safety and well-being of all students is paramount, especially those from marginalized communities. While I acknowledge the intention behind HB 382, it is crucial to consider the potential for misuse of this legislation, which would further exacerbate the already high rates of harm and mortality among LGBTQ+ youth. Therefore, I call you to incorporate additional safeguards into the bill to protect the privacy and safety of these students, or alternatively, reject the bill entirely to rework it with the safety of ALL students prioritized. Specifically, measures must be implemented to ensure that information about a student's gender identity and romantic interests is not disclosed without their explicit consent to anyone. The goal of our education system should be to foster an inclusive, safe, and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their personal demographics. By prioritizing the privacy and safety of vulnerable students, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, thrive, and grow without fear of discrimination or harm. I urge you to consider these concerns and take action to protect the rights of students in Alaska. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Protect the privacy of all students! We’re so pro-life; we’ll martyr our queer! Safeguards needed in HB 382!

📱 Text SIGN PSHMCT to 50409

🤯 Liked it? Text FOLLOW IVYPETITIONS to 50409

[yuripira4e]

I want to preface this post by saying that I love the cat king as a character, especially one that has such a major impact on Edwin and his relationship with his queerness and learning to be okay with it; HOWEVER, I also believe that everyone that genuinely believes he should be a love interest for Edwin should read this. (Also if you just like the cat king as a character and want to understand his character better and why his and Edwin’s relationship is not something that would be healthy or “real” for either)

[iniziare]

Tag drop: Ruan Mei

[our-trans-punk-experience]

WARNING for trans america

Regarding the U.S. v. Skrmetti case, which challenges Tenessee state law prohibiting trans youth recieving any affirming medical care, being heard in the supreme court I have this below quote from anti-trans group "Our Duty".

"Various gender critical groups are coordinating a rally that will occur in Washington, D.C. on DECEMBER 4, 2024.  The transgender activists will be there in force, and we need to be there too."

If you were planning to stand in, there will be multiple groups such as Our Duty standing there. Now Our Duty is largely a parent group, so trans youth might want to watch out for that. If your parents ask questions about your experience of transition, be warned that Our Duty files amicus briefs (extra information testimonial petitions) to the supreme court taking testimony from its members about the lives of their trans children. They file similar amicus briefs to any trans-related case in both the US and the UK.

Below is the heading paragraph of the amicus brief they have submitted to the supreme court ahead of the Skrmetti case

"Parents of gender-dysphoric children are given false choices: treat your child with off-label use of cancer-drugs, experimental cross-sex hormones, and surgeries—or lose your child to suicide or the state. Parents seeking to avoid unproven treatments do so in fear of being investigated for abuse and losing custody of their children. To avoid these tragedies, Tennessee and Kentucky enacted statutes (collectively, the “Acts”) to safeguard children’s bodies and futures. See Tenn. Code §§ 68-33-101–110; Ky. Rev. Stat. § 311.372. The Acts are constitutional and should be upheld."

This brief also contains dozens and dozens of parent testimonials about their children's experience. I know none of these children, and some of them very well have simply experimented with gender before concluding they were cis, but many of these seem to be terrifying stories of conversion therapy. And regardless of what truth lies behind these stories, parents second hand testimony of the trans experience should not be used to make life worse for all trans children. Some of these stories are about these peoples children who are actually over 18 and so should not be considered at all in this case. And none of these children gave their consent for their stories to be shared.

At the end of this post i realise it might be a bit incoherent and not exactly follow one thread through. so ask follow ups about the case or about Our Duty if you want and ffs stay safe out there punks, and stay sharp. Tell your friends you love them

[our-trans-youth-experience]

For the zine if you’re still doing that

Thank you, this is really cool!!

Yes, unfortunately the zine is not complete yet, but it is in progress! We have plenty of art (and feel free to send more if you want ofc), but if anyone wants to write an article/poem etc. Feel free to do so! One of the main difficulties at the moment is we have loads of images, but not enough text for the zine, so it'd be really cool if some of you want to write in <3

-Sage [he/him but don't mind they/neos]

[omgcatboi]

Here's one last political post because I have over 3k followers and I really think this is an extremely important message to spread around so PLEASE REBLOG but

Y'all... Do realize we can start petitions to fire the people in the supreme courts and all these legislators that are banning abortion and trans rights as well as erasing black and native history.... Right?

I see y'all talking about it .... But y'all don't actually do anything about it. Why not go directly for their jobs? Take they jobs!

I've been emailing legislators regularly telling them they're shit heads for passing these bills but they don't want to listen to one single fat trans man so why don't we start a petition to remove them?

A petition to reverse abortion bans in Florida recently got ONE MILLION SIGNATURES. THATS... UNHEARD OF.

and guess what? The bill is being challenged by legislatiors in FL.

I promise I won't make anymore political posts, I just... Think it's important we all know that we can take these mfs jobs.

It's good to talk about it but just talking about it doesn't do anything to stop these fascist bills. Tumblr queers work your magic with me, maybe we can get the Trever project on board?