Dear Queer Youth

By queer youth, for queer youth

Dear Queer Youth (DQY) is an international nonprofit, created and led by queer youth, for queer youth. We publish art and writing, foster global connections, and create local spaces for LGBTQ+ identifying youth.

Our core values

  • Service

    We believe service is the most direct way to heal and bring together a community. Through hands-on volunteer projects and fundraising, we connect queer youth to the broader LGBTQ+ movement and provide direct support to those who need it most.

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  • Expression

    Expression is how queer youth share joy, identity, and resistance. By showcasing the art, writing, and design created by queer youth, DQY give queer youth a meaningful platform to share their work with the world. We also publish a tri-annual online magazine and an annual physical journal.

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  • Community

    We believe connection saves lives. Through our chapter and ambassador program, as well as our online events, queer youth can find a place they call home.

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  • Storytelling

    We believe every queer youth’s voice matters. By uplifting stories across identities and borders, DQY documents queer realities and gives representation to the underrepresented.

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Literature

  • "A five-letter syllable that begins with a question and ends with a listening ear. A word for which every time I think I’ve found a definition, it away slips from my fingertips. A story of a detective following leads that never lead to culprits, but only to more possibilities..."

    Queer by Sruthi Amalan

  • The clouds part in the corner; you can see the linear sun rays fall, lighting up the trees, their leaves. Raindrops glistening, under each umbrella a diamond is hidden in the rough, my inner altruist feels them shine. It smells like a queer, sultry summer.

    Citrus by Ekaterina Khakimullina

  • The fairy wren gifting a petal to another male / A beautiful mating ritual / The swallowtail butterfly / with one male and one female wing / Still able to fly with its colors.

    Solidarity by Taz Hunt

  • Grown men scream / Lesbian in your face / Laughing is the only shield you can have / Seven year olds don’t have self respect

    Anxious but Attached By Rachel Moniz

Read more here

Visual Art

  • Godess By Victor Baco

  • Bisexual by Kara

  • Genderfluid by Sophia Wong

  • Sparks by Haley Romano

See more here!

JOIN THE TEAM

Are you a queer youth looking for ways to help other queer youth like you?

Join the Dear Queer Youth leadership team and help us uplift queer voices, advocate for our rights, and create impactful change!