mistakes, dream about their futures and enjoy being young. That is where queer joy becomes important. WHAT IS QUEER JOY? Queer joy is not about pretending that discrimination does not exist or putting a positive spin on genuinely difficult experiences. It is about making space for the other side of the story. On one level it’s very simple. It can be the relief of finding people who understand you. It’s the first time someone uses your chosen name without hesitation. It’s seeing somebody like you represented positively in a book, film or television programme. It’s about finding friends with whom you do not have to explain yourself or experimenting with clothes, music, hair or identity. It’s going to Pride, having a crush and laughing until you cannot breathe. Sometimes queer joy is much quieter. It is simply feeling comfortable enough to be yourself. For adults supporting LGBTQI+ young people, this means asking not only, How can we keep this young person safe? but also, What will help this young person flourish? CONFIDENCE GROWS WHEN IDENTITY ISN’T TREATED AS A PROBLEM One of the most powerful things adults can do is allow LGBTQI+ identities to exist without automatically turning it into an issue that needs discussing, managing or solving. A young person mentioning that they are gay, bisexual, trans, queer or questioning does not always require a serious conversation. Sometimes it can simply be another piece of information about who they are. That everyday acceptance matters. When adults respond naturally rather than with alarm, awkwardness or excessive concern, they communicate a vital message - there is nothing wrong or frightening about this part of you. Confidence is also nurtured when young people are given room to explore. Adolescence is a period when all young people are discovering who they are. They try identities on for size. They experiment with appearance, friendships, relationships,
QUEER JOY: Helping LGBTQI+ Young People Thrive, Not Just Cope
WRITTEN BY CATH BREW
When we talk about supporting LGBTQI+ young people, the conversation often begins with difficulty. We talk about bullying, discrimination, isolation, mental health, coming out and the challenges of navigating a world that does not always understand or accept difference. These conversations matter. They are vital. Young people need adults who recognise the pressures they may face and
who are prepared to challenge prejudice and create safer spaces. Yet safety should not be the limit of our ambition. LGBTQI+ young people deserve more than simply being helped to cope. They deserve the opportunity to thrive, to feel confident in who they are, build strong friendships, experience belonging, explore their identities, fall in love, laugh, make
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL PARENT AUTUMN 2026 | 40
Powered by FlippingBook