Where Queer Lead The Way
BOLD SPACES FOR JOY, IDENTITY, AND CHANGEMAKING
At the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, we believe LGBTQ+ youth deserve not only safe spaces—but powerful platforms. Our youth programs nurture leadership, build community, and amplify the voices of queer and trans young people who are shaping a more just future. Whether you’re in Atlanta or across the country, there’s a place for you here.
“This is the first place where I felt like my story mattered. Not just tolerated—celebrated.” — YOU(th) Belong Participant
YOU(TH) BELONG
A space for LGBTQ+ youth to connect, create, and lead change.
Created by and for LGBTQ+ youth, You(th) Belong is a monthly gathering for young people ages 13–25 across Metro Atlanta. Each session blends art, dialogue, and collective care—uplifting queer joy and peer-led advocacy with guidance from local mentors. Through the Youth Advisory Council (for middle and high school students) and Youth Steering Committee (for ages 18–25), participants shape the program’s direction and ensure youth voices are always at the center. With support from community partners, You(th) Belong offers a welcoming space to learn about social justice, connect with local changemakers, build supportive relationships, and use creativity to make a difference.
GEORGIA YOUTH
ADVOCACY FELLOWSHIP
Empowering young LGBTQ+ leaders to ignite change across Georgia.
The Georgia Youth Advocacy Fellowship (GYAF) equips LGBTQ+ young adults with the tools, networks, and confidence to lead civic change. Fellows engage in storytelling, organizing, and mentorship—launching real projects that advance equity and influence policy. Anchored by the annual IGNYTE Symposium and Advocacy Academy at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, participants explore LGBTQ+ advocacy history, deepen their understanding of Georgia’s legislative landscape, and practice bridge-building strategies like Deep Canvassing. This free, year-long fellowship combines in-person and virtual learning to cultivate a statewide network of resilient, justice-driven leaders.
NATIONAL YOUTH
ADVOCACY CORPS
A nationwide network empowering queer and
allied youth to lead with vision, courage, and action.
The National Youth Advocacy Corps is a year-long fellowship for young leaders ages 15–25, blending mentorship, research, and activism to tackle urgent issues from racial justice to education equity. Fellows connect through virtual summits, creative projects, and activist storytelling—grounded in four pillars: intersectionality, research, history, and public policy. Hosted by the LGBTQ+ Institute at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the program builds on the legacy of youth trailblazers who have shaped our nation’s movements, preparing the next generation to carry that legacy forward with knowledge, empathy, and unstoppable resolve.
IGNYTE CONFERENCE
Where LGBTQ+ leadership, equity, and community power take center stage.
The IGNYTE Conference brings together emerging youth leaders, seasoned advocates, and community changemakers to shape the future of LGBTQ+ leadership in the South and beyond. In partnership with NAESM, the event fosters intergenerational dialogue, mentorship, and collaboration. Through workshops, bold conversations, and visionary keynotes, IGNYTE creates space for healing, health equity, and liberation—aligning with Atlanta Pride and the LGBTQ+ Institute’s commitment to building a freer, more just future.
LET’S BUILD A WORLD WHERE BELONGING IS THE NORM
Want to bring LGBTQ+ programming to your school, workplace, or community? Looking to volunteer, partner, or stay informed?
Sign up for updates from the LGBTQ+ Institute—and be part of a movement turning equity into action.