26 Jun 2022 | 4 mins
Overview
  • From isolation to face-to-face, we have all realised how important it is to make friends and have supportive networks
  • High school can also feel really draining, especially if you don’t have folks in your corner who you can relate to
  • Here are five tips on finding community in high school as a queer person 💜

Even though society has changed a great deal in the past 30 years, it is crazy to think that only 32 years ago, homosexuality was considered a disease. In some countries today, it is still illegal. 

We are living in a period of transition, with some generations (looking at the boomers here) still a little slow off the mark to make changes to their mindsets. With that being said, here are the ways you can find your support network in high school:

1. Talk to your mates and stay safe

So, how do you find your people? They don’t usually tell you how hard it can be - especially when you need to consider coming out, inviting others in, labels, people, and the whole global pandemic thing. It can be very frustrating and overwhelming. 

While it might seem a little obvious that you should talk to your mates, coming out to them when you are ready can be a big step in the right direction to finding support and community. You might find they are really supportive or part of the LGBTQIA+ community themselves. 

2. Look into whether your school has a club or equivalent

Many schools now have clubs or groups dedicated to LGBTQIA+ support. This could be a way for you to build your network of peeps and learn more about other aspects of the community. 

Finding clubs or groups can allow you to meet like-minded people from different year levels as well!  

3. Check if your local Council’s youth services have an LGBTQIA+ program

Branching out wider than the schoolyard and classroom, your local Council’s youth services might have an LGBTQIA+ program or club that meets after school. These groups are a great way to make friendships with those outside your immediate school community and find others you have things in common with.

Simply by looking up your local council and LGBTQIA services you can find a program either in your own local council or one nearby.   

4. Check out online resources and organisations

There are many online resources that can be used when trying to figure out your identity or in finding your community. Downloading guides, joining group chats and reading articles can help to build your own knowledge and find others to talk to. 

It is important to remember to be safe online as well!

5. Attend online and in-person events

Looking at the programs run by local councils is great, but you can take it a step further and go to an event online or in person. The events local councils or other organisations hold both online or in-person which are great ways to find other queer people and have some fun, whether it’s a movie night, music performance, meet and greet or anything in between. This can also be a way to bond with other people you have met who are part of the community.

It is so important to remember that even though you may find it difficult to find like-minded people today, they are out there waiting for you. Don’t just wait for pride month to be proud of your identity, you are valid all year round. 

Written by Louis Harrison