Maloney Introduces LGBTQ Essential Data Act to Combat Deadly Violence Against LGBTQ Community

June 13, 2019

The bill, which strengthens the National Violent Death Reporting System, is introduced on third anniversary of Pulse Nightclub shooting.

WASHINGTON — In observance of the third anniversary of the Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando that killed 49 Americans, Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) introduced the LGBTQ Essential Data Act, which will strengthen the Center for Disease Control’s National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS) by improving data collection regarding sexual orientation and gender identity in violent deaths.

“Victims of violence targeted at the LGBTQ community are often invisible to the rest of the world just because of who they are or who they love. We need quality data showing where, how, why, and to whom this violence is happening to get in action and save LGBTQ lives,” said Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney.

Various barriers exist to the collection of data on sexual orientation and gender identity, and the National Violent Death Reporting System faces a backlog of data in several states. At the time of the Pulse Nightclub shooting Florida did not utilize the NVDRS, meaning the lives lost in the Orlando attack were not recorded as anti-LGBT murders in any data collection.

The LGBTQ Essential Data Act is endorsed by the Human Rights Campaign, The Trevor Project, PFLAG National, and the Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN).

  • “In an era where the Trump-Pence administration is attempting to erase LGBTQ people from government websites and data collection, legislation like the LGBTQ Essential Data Act is all the more crucial. LGBTQ people, particularly transgender women of color, are too often victims of violence and even death. The LGBTQ Essential Data Act will give lawmakers and law enforcement the necessary tools to work toward justice and develop comprehensive legislative solutions to fight this epidemic. We thank Rep. Maloney for his leadership and for helping us create a safer LGBTQ community,” said HRC Government Affairs Director David Stacy.
  • “The Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Violent Death Reporting System is a critical tool in the mission of ending LGBTQ youth suicide across the country. Unfortunately, The Trevor Project research has found that despite good intention and the optional collection of sexual orientation and gender identity, many states simply don’t know how best to collect this vital information. The LGBTQ Essential Data Act will provide direction and funding to improve the process of capturing sexual orientation and gender identity at the time of death, thereby providing life-saving data to prevent future violent deaths. Who we are must not be erased when we die,” said Sam Brinton, Head of Advocacy and Government Affairs for The Trevor Project.
  • “Given the ever-increasing number of transgender women of color brutally murdered each year—and the added incidence of harmful risk for LGBTQ+ people—the CDC collecting data and funding the program appropriately will save lives. Thanks to the brave and mindful leadership of Rep. Maloney introducing this bill, we can hold hope that our LGBTQ+ loved-ones’ lives won’t be erased, and PFLAGers across the country will work passionately and diligently to move this bill forward to passage,” said Diego M. Sanchez, Director of Advocacy, Policy, and Partnerships for PFLAG National, the first and largest organization for LGBTQ+ people, their parents and families, and allies.
  • “GLSEN is proud to support the LGBTQ Essential Data Act again this Congress. Data collection is imperative to ensuring that policies are implemented effectively and that programs are funded adequately to have an impact on the communities they are meant to serve; however, too often LGBTQ people are left out of critical data collection measures and subsequently left behind. Improving the CDC’s data collection on sexual orientation and gender identity, and providing the funds necessary to get that done, is a hugely important step,” said Brenda Baron, Director of Public Policy at GLSEN.

The LGBTQ Essential Data Act would authorize $25 million to fully fund the NVDRS, operated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While all 50 states now collect this data, 10 states face a 2-year backlog and have not yet released data on LGBT violence. The NVDRS aggregates data from a variety of local sources including death certificates, coroner/medical examiner reports, police reports, and crime labs, which is then used to inform policy and regulatory decisions aimed at responding to public health crises such as suicide and homicide at the local, federal, and state level.

The LGBTQ Essential Data Act was first introduced by Rep. Maloney in 2016, a month after the Pulse Nightclub shooting.

Representative Sean Patrick Maloney is the first openly gay member of Congress from New York. After 22 years together, he married his husband Randy Florke in June 2014 in Cold Spring, NY where they live with their three children. He is a co-chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus.

Boyertown Decision is Good News for Transgender Youth

May 28, 2019

By John Paul Brammer

The Supreme Court declined to hear Doe v. Boyertown Area School District today, thus allowing transgender students to continue using restrooms that match their gender identity in schools that have policies protecting that right. It’s good news for trans youth everywhere who deserve to know that they are just as valid and worthy of respect as their cisgender peers.

The Boyertown Area School District first allowed trans students to use the restrooms and locker rooms consistent with their gender in 2016, but Boyertown was sued by a group represented by the anti-LGBT legal organization, Alliance Defending Freedom, for the affirming policy. ADF argued that the presence of trans students in these spaces was tantamount to sexual harassment.

This kind of attitude contributes to the stigma and discrimination trans students face across the nation. We at The Trevor Project know that trans youth face significantly increased rates of depression, suicidality, and victimization compared to their cisgender peers, with trans youth being roughly four times as likely to report feeling unsafe going to school within a 30-day period. The Court saw fit to let these policies, which are life-saving for vulnerable young people, stand.

The Third Circuit Court of Appeals rejected the notion that trans students threaten anyone with their mere presence in restrooms and locker rooms and noted that trans students being forced to use separate facilities would “publicly brand all transgender students with a scarlet ‘T,’ and they should not have to endure that as the price of attending their public school.”

This case demonstrates the power of LGBTQ youth. It was a coalition of LGBTQ youth leaders and organizations that intervened and made a passionate case to defend the trans students in Boyertown. At The Trevor Project, we see just how resilient LGBTQ youth are in the face of obstacles, and this is yet another reminder of the strength and fortitude our young people have when one group is being targeted.

Ria Tabacco Mar, a senior staff attorney at the ACLU LGBT & HIV Project, spoke about the meaning of the decision and why it’s worth applauding: “This is an enormous victory for transgender students across the country. Boyertown’s schools chose to be inclusive and welcoming of transgender students in 2016, a decision the courts have affirmed again and again. This lawsuit sought to reverse that hard-won progress by excluding transgender students from school facilities that other students use. That would have increased the stigma and discrimination that transgender students already face.”

Trans students of Boyertown, past and present, are also speaking on the decision. “By the time I graduated high school, I was using the boys’ bathroom and participating on the boys’ cross country team,” Boyertown alum Aidan DeStefano said in a statement. “I’m glad the Supreme Court is allowing schools like mine to continue supporting transgender students.”

At The Trevor Project, we know that trans youth are at increased risk for suicide attempts and and feelings of isolation not because there’s anything wrong with them, but because of the systemic discrimination they face. Any step toward a future where trans youth will feel more welcome and free to be themselves, no matter how small, is worth pointing out and holding up as an example. We hope you will join us in that mission.

Abercrombie & Fitch Partners with The Trevor Project for #FaceYourFierce Campaign

Campaign featuring LGBTQ activists in Support of Pride Month

New Albany, Ohio — Abercrombie & Fitch, a division of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE: ANF), is proud to announce its latest initiative with The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) young people, as part of the retailer and nonprofit’s year-long partnership. In time for Pride month, which this year marks the 50th anniversary of Stonewall, an event that spurred the modern-day fight for LGBTQ rights in the U.S, A&F will feature LGBTQ activists and ambassadors for The Trevor Project throughout its #FaceYourFierce campaign.

The #FaceYourFierce campaign, which originally debuted in February 2019 as part of the re-launch of A&F’s iconic fragrance, Fierce, highlights A&F associates, athletes, activists, actors, and more who “live fiercely” with courage, humility, love and empathy. The latest features Trevor ambassadors including: Content Creator and Activist Tyler Oakley, Actor Johnny Sibilly, Model Taylor Phillips, WNBA Star Stephanie Dobson, Out Magazine Editor Phillip Picardi, Producer Crystal Anderson, Model and Activist TJ, Musician Mena Sachdev, Digital Creator Kyle Kreiger and Professional Cheerleader Napoleon Jinnies*.

The campaign sees the cast share personal experiences of Fierceness, which aim to send messages of hope and support to LGBTQ youth in crisis. The content will be shared across both organizations’ digital channels, in Abercrombie stores and paid media throughout the month of June. A&F will donate a portion of proceeds of Fierce sales and its Pride Collection**, and customers have the opportunity to round up their purchase in U.S. stores and online through the month of June. The funds raised in this campaign hope to bring further awareness and reach to The Trevor Project’s work which aims to touch the lives of 80,000 youth in 2019, a significant increase on previous years.

“We are excited to share our #FaceYourFierce narrative through members of the LGBTQ community, ahead of this historic Pride month,” said Kristin Scott, President, Global Brands at Abercrombie & Fitch Co. “We hope that these personal and inspiring stories will help bring further attention to The Trevor Project’s essential work.”

“When LGBTQ young people see diverse public figures like the Trevor ambassadors in the #FaceYourFierce campaign, they feel seen and know that they are not alone,” said Amit Paley, CEO & Executive Director of The Trevor Project. “That’s what we do every day at The Trevor Project, and we are grateful to Abercrombie & Fitch for their ongoing support of LGBTQ youth and our mission to save LGBTQ young lives.”

The partnership between A&F and The Trevor Project began in 2010. To date, A&F Co. and its customers have donated more than $600,000 to the nonprofit, with donations in 2018 funding its digital crisis counselors training, specifically. This partnership will continue throughout 2019 with a series of product collections and events, including participation in the New York City Pride March on June 30, 2019.

To learn more about The Trevor Project or to get help, visit www.TheTrevorProject.org.

*Tyler Oakley (@tyleroakley), Actor Johnny Sibilly (@johnnysibilly), Model Taylor Phillips (@taylorjphillips), WNBA Star Stephanie Dobson (@bigmamastef), Out Magazine Editor Phillip Picardi (@pfpicardi), Producer Crystal Anderson (@beerbottles_chainsaws), Model and Activist TJ (@renegades_), Musician Mena Sachdev (@ushamami), Digital Creator Kyle Kreiger (@kylekrieger) and Professional Cheerleader Napoleon Jinnies (@napoleonjinnies).
**up to $100,000

About The Trevor Project:

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The Trevor Project offers a suite of 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat as well as the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, TrevorSpace. Trevor also operates an education program with resources for youth-serving adults and organizations, an advocacy department fighting for pro-LGBTQ legislation and against anti-LGBTQ rhetoric/policy positions, and a research team to discover the most effective means to help young LGBTQ people in crisis and end suicide. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

About Abercrombie & Fitch:

Abercrombie & Fitch is a specialty retailer of high-quality apparel and accessories for men and women. For more than 125 years, the iconic brand has outfitted innovators, explorers and entrepreneurs. Today, it reflects the updated attitude of the modern consumer, while remaining true to its heritage of creating expertly crafted products with an effortless, American style.

Abercrombie & Fitch operates approximately 315 locations (includes abercrombie kids) worldwide as of the end of Q1 2019. It is the namesake brand of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE: ANF). The Company’s other brands include abercrombie kids and Hollister Co.

To learn more about Abercrombie & Fitch Co.’s charitable work, visit http://corporate.abercrombie.com/af-cares/af-gives-back/our-mission.

Media Contact:

Clare Drummond
Abercrombie & Fitch
(614) 283-6300
[email protected]

Investor Contact:

Pam Quintiliano
Abercrombie & Fitch
(614) 283-6877
[email protected]

VidCon and the Trevor Project Join Forces to Elevate LGBTQ+ Voices at Tenth Annual VidCon US 2019

May 13, 2019

Lachlan Watson (“Chilling Adventures of Sabrina”) Join VidCons attendees Hannah Hart, Miles McKenna, among others to celebrate LGBTQ+ community

LOS ANGELES, CA & NEW YORK, NY – VidCon, the world’s largest celebration of online video and digital creators, today announced a new partnership with

The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ+ young people. The partnership will further highlight and celebrate some of the world’s biggest digital talent and rising stars from the LGBTQ+ community during the tenth anniversary of VidCon US set for July 10–13, 2019 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

As part of the initiative, Trevor will curate programming within VidCon’s Community Track, focusing conversations around heartfelt experiences about coming out online and IRL; how discussing their own journeys have helped them heal and connect with their audiences; how to activate the community to further raise awareness and support for the LGBTQ+ community; and the fight against cyberbullying.

The Trevor Project will also welcome celebrity speakers, many of whom are attending VidCon US for the first time ever, including Lachlan Watson (“Chilling Adventures of Sabrina”). Talent will join the world’s most followed, LGBTQ+ identifying digital talent previously confirmed to attend VidCon US including Hannah Hart, Rickey Thompson, Miles McKenna, Elle Mills, Tre Melvin, Ricky Dillon, and more to support these discussions.

“VidCon’s top priority is to provide a safe environment, one with inclusive programming that reflects the online video industry’s diverse audience. As we mark the 50th anniversary of Stonewall and Pride celebrations around the world this summer, VidCon is thrilled to officially partner with The Trevor Project, whose important work promotes the well-being of our family, friends and fans in the LGBTQ+ community. We look forward to compelling and important conversations this year,” said Jim Louderback, General Manager of VidCon.

“We’re excited to partner with VidCon this year to curate inclusive, diverse programming so that LGBTQ young people can see themselves represented on a national stage,” said Amit Paley, CEO & Executive Director of The Trevor Project. “We’re grateful to VidCon for providing a platform for LGBTQ youth to connect with their favorite creators so they know they are seen, their experiences are valid, and that they’re never alone.”

The Trevor Project will also provide their followers a special discount on Community Track badges. Additionally, the organization will launch a special VidCon badge giveaway contest on social media – details will be announced at a later date.

Panels curated by The Trevor Project at VidCon US include:

    • Coming Out: Coming out, either on the internet or IRL, can be liberating, scary, overwhelming, exciting, stressful, and a thousand more adjectives. These creators will talk about their experiences being queer and online, what those experiences taught them, advice they have, and more. Confirmed talent includes Ash Hardell, Eugene Lee Yang, Rickey Thompson, Jessie Paege, Echo Gillette and Nikita Dragun.
    • LGBTQ+ Activism & Awareness: Creators who use their platforms to educate about and fight for LGBTQ+ issues talk about how their personal queer experiences inform their activism. Confirmed speakers include Lachlan Watson, Miles McKenna, Miles Jai, Calle y Poche, and AmbersCloset.
    • Fighting the Good Fight to Erase Cyberbullying: The internet is one of the best inventions of the last 100 years; it instantly opens up a world of possibilities that is both wonderful and terrifying. The fact that most users are allowed anonymity and for the most part are consequence-free has led to a rise in harassment and cyberbullying. This candid discussion will give you the tools to recognize and combat harassment to make your online community safer and more positive. Confirmed talent includes Michael Buckley, Ricky Dillon, Lauren Godwin, and Tre Melvin.

 

To learn more about The Trevor Project or to get help, visit www.TheTrevorProject.org.

To learn more and purchase tickets, visit VidCon.com

ABOUT VIDCON

VidCon US, VidCon AU and VidCon LDN are the world’s largest events for fans, creators, executives and brands who are passionate about online video and building diverse communities. Across the three events, VidCon will host more than 100,000 attendees, in aggregate, via a variety of live on-stage performances, panels, fireside chats, interactive experiences, fan and creator meet & greets, brand activations and more. VidCon’s flagship show, VidCon US, will celebrate its 10th Anniversary in 2019. VidCon was founded by veteran YouTube creator Hank Green and was acquired by Viacom in 2018.

ABOUT THE TREVOR PROJECT

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The Trevor Project offers a suite of 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat as well as the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, TrevorSpace. Trevor also operates an education program with resources for youth-serving adults and organizations, an advocacy department fighting for pro-LGBTQ legislation and against anti-LGBTQ rhetoric/policy positions, and a research team to discover the most effective means to help young LGBTQ people in crisis and end suicide. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

MEDIA CONTACT

Kevin Wong
The Trevor Project
646.576.7044
[email protected]

For VidCon
Metro Public Relations
[email protected]

###

The Trevor Project is a Google AI Impact Grantee

May 7, 2019

AI to Aid in Suicide Prevention Efforts for LGBTQ Youth

New York City — Google announced today that The Trevor Project is one of 20 organizations that will share $25 million in grants from Google.org, credit and consulting from Google Cloud and coaching by Google’s AI experts as a grantee of the Google AI Impact Challenge. The Google AI Impact Challenge was an open call to nonprofits, social enterprises, and research institutions from around the world to submit their ideas to use AI to help address societal challenges. Over 2,600 organizations applied.

The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention organization for LGBTQ youth, will receive a $1.5M USD grant to incorporate machine learning and natural language processing into its crisis services, which save young LGBTQ lives by supporting them via phone, chat, and text. With Google’s help, The Trevor Project will be able to assess suicide risk level of youth in crisis more quickly, allowing counselors to better tailor their support and to provide relevant resources and consistent quality of care.

Next week, The Trevor Project’s John Callery, Director of Technology, Sam Dorison, Chief of Staff, and Dr. Amy Green, Director of Research will travel to San Francisco to dive into execution. For five days, all 20 organizations will join Google AI experts, Project Managers and the startup specialists from Google’s Launchpad Accelerator for a program that will last six months, from May to November 2019. Through the Launchpad program, each of the 20 grantees will develop their own OKRs — Objectives and Key Results — and set timelines for project completion. Each organization will be paired a Google expert who will meet with them regularly for coaching sessions, and will also have access to other Google resources and expert mentorship.

“The Trevor Project estimates that each year more than 1.5 million LGBTQ youth in the U.S. experience suicidal ideation or some form of crisis – and many of their moments of crisis are unique and extremely personal,” said Amit Paley, CEO & Executive Director of The Trevor Project. “Our crisis counselors work tirelessly every day to support these LGBTQ youth. This support from Google will allow our counselors to leverage AI and leading-edge technology to identify highest risk youth faster and serve them with even higher quality of care.”

“At Google, we have seen how AI can help us accomplish daily tasks and travels, and we believe in its potential to help address some of the world’s biggest humanitarian challenges. We are excited to support The Trevor Project’s work to use AI to achieve even greater social impact,” said Jacquelline Fuller, President of Google.org.

The Trevor Project is dedicated to using the latest technological advancements to end suicide among LGBTQ youth. The organization recently announced technology enhancements to its crisis services platform, which now provides 24/7 text and chat counseling for LGBTQ youth in crisis. In addition, the platform now enables staff to use an innovative, multi-channel dashboard to further increase Trevor’s quality of care. The streamlined platform is the first of its kind in the nonprofit crisis services space, and its new API can easily connect to future social media platforms, allowing the organization to adapt as quickly as the digital landscape for Generation Z evolves.

“Vulnerable communities including LGBTQ youth deserve to be supported with the latest innovations in health technology,” said Sam Dorison, who serves as Chief of Staff at The Trevor Project and will oversee the organization’s work in artificial intelligence. “In the next few months, AI technology will become a cornerstone in The Trevor Project’s suicide prevention work and as we continue to address mental health among LGBTQ young people.”

ABOUT THE TREVOR PROJECT

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The Trevor Project offers a suite of 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat as well as the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, TrevorSpace. Trevor also operates an education program with resources for youth-serving adults and organizations, an advocacy department fighting for pro-LGBTQ legislation and against anti-LGBTQ rhetoric/policy positions, and a research team to discover the most effective means to help young LGBTQ people in crisis and end suicide. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

ABOUT GOOGLE.ORG

Google.org, Google’s philanthropy, supports nonprofits that address humanitarian issues worldwide and apply radical, data-driven innovation to solving the world’s biggest challenges.

# # #

MEDIA CONTACT

Kevin Wong
The Trevor Project
646.576.7044
[email protected]

The Trevor Project, AT&T & Tyler Oakley Help LGBTQ Youth Find Support 24/7

April 30, 2019

The Trevor Project’s Text and Chat Counseling Services, Powered by AT&T, Are Now Available 24/7

New York City and Los Angeles — The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for LGBTQ young people, and AT&T Turn Up the Love, the company’s campaign to support and engage LGBTQ people and allies, today launched Anytime, Anywhere featuring Content Creator and LGBTQ Advocate, Tyler Oakley.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth are more than four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers. Anytime, Anywhere highlights Tyler Oakley’s moments of feeling hopeless and alone during his youth, and tells LGBTQ young people that The Trevor Project’s text and chat counseling services, TrevorText and TrevorChat, are now available 24/7 for the first time in the organization’s 21-year history of saving young LGBTQ lives.

“The Trevor Project wants every young LGBTQ person to know that they are never alone and can always reach out to us for help,” said Amit Paley, CEO & Executive Director of The Trevor Project. “Now that our text and chat services are available around the clock, thanks to financial support, products, services, and employee volunteers provided by AT&T, we can provide life-saving support to even more of the 1.5 million LGBTQ young people we estimate to need our services every year. With the help of Tyler Oakley and AT&T, we’re able to reach LGBTQ youth nationwide so they know how to connect with trained crisis counselors at any time, who can tell them that they are loved, valued, and never alone.”

The organization expanded TrevorText and TrevorChat’s availability with Generation Z in mind. As the first mobile native generation that grew up with smartphone technology, they are more comfortable with text and chat services than with speaking on the phone or in-person interactions. In fact, in a third-party evaluation of The Trevor Project’s services, the majority of youth (63%) who used its text and chat services reported doing so because they felt like it was easier to be themselves. Tyler Oakley, who has a massive social media following of more than 23 million fans and over 7.5 million YouTube subscribers, connects directly with young people daily through content that resonates uniquely with them.

“Moments of crisis are different for everyone, and I hope that by sharing mine, LGBTQ youth know there’s no reason too big or small to reach out to The Trevor Project,” said Tyler Oakley. “Asking for support isn’t always easy — it’s important to meet LGBTQ young people where they are, with counselors who are trained to meet their unique needs, and on platforms they’re comfortable using.”

The 24/7 transformation of The Trevor Project’s text and chat services is powered by AT&T, which recognizes the importance of connectivity and of being able to support LGBTQ youth in crisis at all hours of the day.

“Our work with The Trevor Project is especially meaningful to AT&T. We’re proud to make millions of connections every day and those connections are never more important than in a time of need or crisis,” said Valerie Vargas, SVP of advertising and creative services, AT&T. “As one of the first corporate allies of the LGBTQ community, providing resources and support– whether it’s through our technology or our dedicated employees – to help save lives of LGBTQ young people is a crucial part of our mission.”

Proud supporters of The Trevor Project’s expansion to provide 24/7 text and chat support for LGBTQ youth in crisis also include The Coca-Cola Foundation and Wells Fargo Foundation.

The Trevor Project also supports LGBTQ youth in crisis through TrevorLifeline, its flagship, confidential phone lifeline, which has been available 24/7 since the organization’s inception 21 years ago.

ABOUT THE TREVOR PROJECT

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The Trevor Project offers a suite of 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat as well as the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, TrevorSpace. Trevor also operates an education program with resources for youth-serving adults and organizations, an advocacy department fighting for pro-LGBTQ legislation and against anti-LGBTQ rhetoric/policy positions, and a research team to discover the most effective means to help young LGBTQ people in crisis and end suicide. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

*ABOUT AT&T COMMUNICATIONS

We help family, friends and neighbors connect in meaningful ways every day. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to mobile video streaming, we innovate to improve lives. We have the nation’s fastest wireless network.** And according to America’s biggest test, we have the nation’s best wireless network.*** We’re building FirstNet just for first responders and creating next-generation mobile 5G. With DIRECTV, DIRECTV NOW and WatchTV, we deliver entertainment people love to talk about. Our smart, highly secure solutions serve nearly 3 million global businesses – nearly all of the Fortune 1000. And worldwide, our spirit of service drives employees to give back to their communities.

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© 2019 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the Globe logo and other marks are trademarks and service marks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

**Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data average download speeds for Q1 2019.

***According to America’s biggest test as announced by Global Wireless Solutions last fall.

MEDIA CONTACT

Kevin Wong
The Trevor Project
646.576.7044
[email protected]

Alyssa McGovern
AT&T Corporate Communications
[email protected]
310-964-5483

Abercrombie & Fitch and The Trevor Project Expand Relationship with Year-Long Partnership

April 24, 2019

New Albany, Ohio — Abercrombie & Fitch, a division of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE: ANF), is excited to announce the details of its 2019 year-long partnership with The Trevor Project, the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning (LGBTQ) young people. A&F has supported The Trevor Project since 2010 and is proud to expand its partnership in 2019 – which also marks the 50th anniversary of Stonewall, an event that spurred the modern-day fight for LGBTQ rights in the U.S. This partnership strives to bring further awareness and funding to The Trevor Project’s critical, life-saving work.

With a 126-year heritage of outfitting customers in their pursuit of life and adventure, A&F aims to inspire and encourage its customers to be themselves, to live life freely, to belong, and to reach for their dreams. The Trevor Project shares in A&F’s passion to encourage safe, confident self-expression for individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities. The expanded partnership will include participation at events such as the Pride Parade in NYC, proceeds* of sales from select A&F collections, and a customer round-up campaign in all U.S. stores and online. Since 2010, A&F and its customers have raised and donated more than $600,000 for the organization. In 2018, donations specifically funded the training of digital crisis counselors, allowing the organization to reach even more of the 1.5 million LGBTQ youth estimated to be in crisis each year.

Designated by the Human Rights Campaign as a “Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality” every year for the past 13 years, A&F Co. is committed to equality and is focused on making a positive impact on its associates’, customers’ and partners’ lives. Through this partnership, The Trevor Project will closely collaborate with A&F Co.’s corporate teams on diversity and inclusion initiatives, including LGBTQ-competent associate training, ensuring its LGBTQ customers know they are loved, valued, and never alone.

“We are grateful for Abercrombie & Fitch’s dedication to The Trevor Project’s mission to end suicide among LGBTQ youth,” said Amit Paley, CEO & Executive Director of The Trevor Project. “Abercrombie & Fitch understands the need to help LGBTQ youth in crisis is year-round. We look forward to working together to engage the brand and its loyal customers in support of our life-saving mission.”

“Abercrombie & Fitch is honored to grow our partnership with The Trevor Project, as it works to meet the needs of LGBTQ youth with its vital crisis intervention and suicide prevention services,” said Kristin Scott, President, Global Brands at Abercrombie & Fitch Co. “Trevor’s work touches many of our customers’ lives daily, and we are optimistic that by expanding our partnership, we can help increase the reach and impact of Trevor’s important work.”

To learn more about The Trevor Project or to get help, visit www.TheTrevorProject.org.

*Up to $100,000 from the Pride Collection and Fierce will be donated to the Trevor Project.

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A&F cautions that any forward-looking statements (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) contained herein or made by management or spokespeople of A&F involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on various important factors, many of which may be beyond the Company’s control. Words such as “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements.  Except as may be required by applicable law, we assume no obligation to publicly update or revise our forward-looking statements. The factors disclosed in “ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS” of A&F’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 2, 2019, in some cases have affected, and in the future could affect, the company’s financial performance and could cause actual results for Fiscal 2019 and beyond to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any of the forward-looking statements included in this press release or otherwise made by management.

ABOUT THE TREVOR PROJECT

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The Trevor Project offers a suite of 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat as well as the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, TrevorSpace. Trevor also operates an education program with resources for youth-serving adults and organizations, an advocacy department fighting for pro-LGBTQ legislation and against anti-LGBTQ rhetoric/policy positions, and a research team to discover the most effective means to help young LGBTQ people in crisis and end suicide. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

ABOUT ABERCROMBIE & FITCH

Abercrombie & Fitch is a specialty retailer of high quality apparel and accessories for men and women. For more than 125 years, the iconic brand has outfitted innovators, explorers and entrepreneurs. Today, it reflects the updated attitude of the modern consumer, while remaining true to its heritage of creating expertly crafted products with an effortless, American style.

Abercrombie & Fitch operates approximately 320 locations (includes abercrombie kids) worldwide as of the end of Q4 2018. It is the namesake brand of Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE: ANF). The Company’s other brands include abercrombie kids and Hollister Co.

To learn more about Abercrombie & Fitch Co.’s charitable work, visit http://corporate.abercrombie.com/af-cares/af-gives-back/our-mission.

Media Contact

Clare Drummond
Abercrombie & Fitch
(614) 283-6300
[email protected]

Macy’s and The Trevor Project partner in celebration of Pride Month

April 18, 2019

As part of its upcoming nationwide Pride + Joy, LGBTQ Pride Month celebrations, Macy’s will raise funds and awareness for The Trevor Project’s life-saving mission through a host of initiatives including a nationwide charitable giving program, exclusive fashions and a digital media awareness campaign aimed at reaching at-risk LGBTQ youth

New York, NY – This June, Macy’s will kick-off its annual Pride + Joy national LGBTQ Pride Month celebrations with its customers, colleagues and local communities in commemoration of Stonewall 50 and World Pride NYC. A key component of that celebration is its nationwide partnership with The Trevor Project. In mid-May, Macy’s and The Trevor Project will begin the roll-out of a series of initiatives aimed at raising funds and awareness for Trevor’s life-saving mission and services for at risk LGBTQ young people, highlighting Macy’s long-standing commitment to diversity, equality, inclusion and respect for all.

“Macy’s believes in the power of fashion, celebration and community to touch the lives of our customers, colleagues and local communities. Macy’s core value of acceptance is reflected in our commitment to supporting the LGBTQ community through the fostering of an inclusive culture and environment that inspires our colleagues and customers to be their authentic self, every day,” said Sam Harrison, Macy’s senior director of Corporate Giving & Volunteerism. “As The Trevor Project’s national Pride partner, we will aim to raise funds and awareness of Trevor’s mission and life-saving services, harnessing the power of our brand to make a difference in the communities we serve.”

“The Trevor Project is grateful to Macy’s for sharing their commitment to our mission with their customers, who will have their own chance to support LGBTQ youth in crisis this Pride month,” said Amit Paley, CEO & executive director of The Trevor Project. “Every day, we serve LGBTQ young people in Macy’s local communities nationwide, so we’re excited to share our affirming messages of hope and support in their stores.”

The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The organization works to save young lives by providing support through free and confidential programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat. They also run TrevorSpace, the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, and operate innovative education, research, and advocacy programs.

To help raise funds for Trevor’s important work, from June 1–June 17 at all Macy’s stores nationwide, shoppers can celebrate Pride by giving back to The Trevor Project through Macy’s charitable round-up program. As customers complete their in-store purchases they will be invited to round up to the nearest dollar (up to $.99) and donate the change to The Trevor Project. These donations will help support the organization’s mission of providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services. In select markets including Chicago, Cincinnati, Houston, Lexington (KY), Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York City, Seattle, St. Louis, and St. Petersburg (FL), the round-up campaign will be extended through June 30 to coincide with Pride parade celebrations in which Macy’s has a local presence.

Macy’s shoppers are also invited to show their Pride through fashion as they support The Trevor Project with style. Pride and its signature colors will be front and center in the limited edition three-piece capsule collection by INC International Concepts. Featuring gender-neutral t-shirts, tanks and socks with rainbow detailing, throughout the month of June, Macy’s will donate $4 of the purchase price of the INC t-shirt and tank and $2 of the socks to The Trevor Project. The pieces retail for $10 to $20 and will be available in select stores and on macys.com/celebrate.

To help spread awareness of The Trevor Project’s life-saving work, Macy’s and Trevor created a PSA showcasing heartfelt personal vignettes of hope and how the support of Trevor’s programs helped LGBTQ youth in crisis. The PSA, debuting on May 20, will run in several length formats across digital and social media channels. It is introduced by and features Jazz Jennings, the young transgender activist and star of the TLC reality series, I Am Jazz.

Additionally, Macy’s partnership with The Trevor Project extends to a presenting sponsorship of this year’s TrevorLIVE NY benefit gala, taking place at Cipriani Wall Street on Monday, June 17. Honorees, presenters, hosts, and celebrity attendees will be announced soon.

As a pivotal component of Macy’s Pride + Joy campaign, the national partnership with The Trevor Project, once again showcases Macy’s steadfast value of diversity and inclusion in all areas of business. This commitment is evidenced by the company’s consistent achievement of a 100 percent score on the Human Rights Commission’s Corporate Equality Index, the national benchmarking tool on corporate policies and practices.

For more information on Macy’s upcoming Pride + Joy campaign and to purchase products that benefit The Trevor Project, please visit macys.com/celebrate, as of May 20. Additional details on Macy’s Pride + Joy campaign will be announced soon.

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ABOUT MACY’S

Macy’s is America’s store for life. The largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M) delivers quality fashion at affordable prices to customers at approximately 640 locations in 43 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam, as well as to customers in more than 100 international destinations through leading e-commerce site macys.com.  Macy’s inspires fashion exploration and discovery through the most desired family of exclusive brands for her, for him, for the home, and via our dynamic mobile and social platforms. We know the power of celebration, demonstrated through decades of memorable experiences created during Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows, and celebrity appearances.  Macy’s flagship stores – including New York City’s Herald Square – are internationally renowned and preeminent destinations for tourists. With the collective support of our customers and employees, Macy’s builds community and helps make a difference in every market we serve, supporting local and national charities by giving nearly $50 million each year, plus 146,000 hours of volunteer service. For more than 160 years, Macy’s has, and continues to, make life shine brighter for our customers, colleagues, and communities.

For Macy’s media materials, including images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at macysinc.com/news-media.

ABOUT THE TREVOR PROJECT

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The Trevor Project offers a suite of 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat as well as the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, TrevorSpace. Trevor also operates an education program with resources for youth-serving adults and organizations, an advocacy department fighting for pro-LGBTQ legislation and against anti-LGBTQ rhetoric/policy positions, and a research team to discover the most effective means to help young LGBTQ people in crisis and end suicide. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

The 2019 LGBTQIA+ Pride March announces Grand Marshals

April 11, 2019

Cast of POSE, Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, Gay Liberation Front, The Trevor Project, Monica Helms to lead

NEW YORK, NY – NYC Pride, the official host of WorldPride 2019 | Stonewall 50, announces its five Grand Marshals slated to lead both the 50th NYC Pride March on Sunday, June 30 2019, and this year’s commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising. The cast of POSE, Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, Gay Liberation Front, The Trevor Project and Monica Helms will head this year’s celebration.

  • POSE is a dance musical, set in the 1980s, that explores the juxtaposition of life and society in New York: the ball culture world, the rise of the Trump era, and the downtown social and literary scene. Cast members Dominique Jackson (Elektra), Indya Moore (Angel), and MJ Rodriguez (Blanca) will represent the show.
  • Phyll Opoku-Gyimah is the nucleus of the award-winning celebration and protest that is UK Black Pride. Widely known as Lady Phyll – partly due to her decision to reject an MBE in the New Year’s Honours’ list, to protest Britain’s role in formulating anti-LGBTQ+ penal codes across its empire – she is a senior official at the Public and Commercial Services (PCS) trade union as the Head of Equality and Learning. She’s a community builder and organizer; a Kaleidoscope Trust Trustee; an Albert Kennedy Trust patron; Diva Magazine columnist, and public speaker focusing on race, gender, sexuality and class.
  • Gay Liberation Front was the very first LGBTQ activist organization formed after the Stonewall Rebellion. The courageous members of GLF fought to give political shape and direction to a whole new generation of LGBTQ militancy that spread with unprecedented vigor and impact across the nation and the world. 
  • The Trevor Project is the world’s largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The organization works to save young lives by providing support through free and confidential programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat. They also run TrevorSpace, the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, and operate innovative education, research, and advocacy programs.
  • Monica Helms is a transgender activist, author, and veteran of the United States Navy, having served on two submarines. She is also the creator of the Transgender Pride Flag, in 1999, and subsequently donated the original flag to the Smithsonian Institution in 2014. 

“In a world where LGBTQIA+ people continue to experience profound oppression, the NYC Pride March is a beacon of hope and community,” said Julian Sanjivan, NYC Pride March Director. “This June 30th, that beacon will shine the brightest it ever has when POSE, Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, Gay Liberation Front, The Trevor Project and Monica Helms lead 115,000 marchers in the largest display of LGBTQIA+ pride the world has ever seen.”

“As millions of LGBTQIA+ folks from across the world make their pilgrimage to WorldPride 2019 and the commemoration of Stonewall 50, New York City will display its Pride like never before,” said Chris Frederick, Executive Director of NYC Pride. “The entire month of June, and this day in particular will be a celebration of everything the LGBTQIA+ community stands for.”

The 50th NYC Pride March will commence at noon, on June 30th, from 26th Street and 5th Avenue. Some 115,000 marchers will proceed south on 5th Avenue before heading west on 8th Street. After crossing over 6th Avenue, the March will continue on Christopher Street, passing the site designated, in 2016 by President Barack Obama, as the Stonewall National Monument. It will then turn north on 7th Avenue, passing the New York City AIDS Memorial, before dispersing in Chelsea just north of 23rd Street and 7th Avenue.

Seventy-four percent of all marching groups are non-profit organizations, and more than half of all marching groups are participating free-of-charge. Upwards of 150 marching groups are coming from outside of the US to participate in this historic event.

WorldPride 2019 | Stonewall 50 will be comprised of more than 25 different events for LGBTQIA+ and allied people during the full month of June, 2019. Throughout the course of the celebration, all WorldPride events will ladder up to the foundational theme, “Millions of Moments of Pride.” Join New York City, and the world, this June as we honor the past, celebrate our differences and march together for our future. For more information and talent press kits visit: www.worldpride.org.

ABOUT HERITAGE OF PRIDE

Heritage of Pride, Inc. is the volunteer-directed organization behind the official NYC Pride roster of events. Heritage of Pride’s mission is to work toward a future without discrimination where all people have equal rights under the law. We do this by producing LGBTQIA+ Pride events that inspire, educate, commemorate and celebrate our diverse community.

ABOUT THE TREVOR PROJECT

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The Trevor Project offers a suite of 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat as well as the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, TrevorSpace. Trevor also operates an education program with resources for youth-serving adults and organizations, an advocacy department fighting for pro-LGBTQ legislation and against anti-LGBTQ rhetoric/policy positions, and a research team to discover the most effective means to help young LGBTQ people in crisis and end suicide. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

MEDIA CONTACT

Kevin Wong
The Trevor Project
646.576.7044
[email protected]

Maloney Introduces Legislation to Ban Use of Taxpayer Dollars for Conversion “Therapy”

March 28, 2019

Bill Would Prohibit Use of Medicaid Funding, Crack Down on Deceptive Billing Practices for Conversion “Therapy”

WASHINGTON – Today, in advance of the Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31st, Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18), a co-chair of the Congressional LGBT Equality Caucus, introduced the Prohibition of Medicaid Funding for Conversion Therapy Act. The bill would prevent Medicaid funds from being used to pay for conversion “therapy” and crack down on misleading billing tactics, which have allowed taxpayer dollars to fund the discredited practice. The bill is cosponsored by 63 members of Congress.

“Conversion practices are discredited, harmful, and not therapy. Fundamentally, conversion tactics are based on the idea that a person’s gender identity or sexual orientation are diseases to be cured — they have no legitimate medical application and should not be used anywhere,” said Rep. Maloney. “Until we can just ban conversion therapy all together, we must ensure taxpayer dollars aren’t funding a fraudulent practice that has been roundly discredited by the medical community. That’s exactly what my bill would do.”

“The Trevor Project hears from youth harmed by the dangerous and discredited practice of conversion therapy every week. By limiting the means by which licensed mental health professionals can be reimbursed for their horrific practice, the Prohibition of Medicaid Funding for Conversion Therapy Act will make clear that conversion therapy is far outside the mainstream,” said Sam Brinton, Head of Advocacy and Government Affairs for The Trevor Project. “More than 21,000 advocates have joined The Trevor Project’s 50 Bills 50 States campaign dedicated to protecting LGBTQ youth from conversion therapy. We look forward to mobilizing them to ensure this critical legislation receives the attention and support it deserves.”

“Being LGBTQ is not a mental illness and should never be treated that way,” said David Stacy, Government Affairs Director for Human Rights Campaign. “So-called ‘conversion therapy’ has been universally rejected by every major medical and mental health organization, and it poses serious health risks including depression and suicide. Taxpayer dollars should never be used to fund this dangerous and discredited practice. As lawmakers across the country step up to protect against conversion therapy, we are grateful for Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney’s leadership on this issue at the federal level. We call on Congress to advance this legislation and ensure funds meant to improve the lives and welfare of all Americans never go toward harmful, medically unnecessary practices.”

“The NEA wholeheartedly supports the ‘Prohibition of Medicaid Funding for Conversion Therapy Act’ and applauds U.S. Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney for introducing this legislation,” said Marc Egan, Director, NEA Government Relations. “Many organizations, including the American College of Physicians, have discredited any programs that attempt to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. These dangerous practices damage physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As educators, NEA members strive to connect with and support all students, which means recognizing their right to be exactly who they are and opposing all practices that deny this right.”

“Conversion therapy is hateful, dangerous, ineffective, has been resoundingly discredited by medical and psychological associations, and has no place in a just and equitable society,” said Justin Rush, Public Policy Director for True Colors United. “We’re thankful to Congressman Maloney for undertaking this important legislation to ensure that payments through Medicaid for conversion therapy are prohibited moving forward,” concluded Rush.

“Conversion therapy is dangerous and discredited,” said Rebecca Isaacs, Executive Director of Equality Federation. “Through our 43 member organizations we’ve heard from many survivors about the harm and trauma this practice has caused them. Major medical and psychological associations agree, and we know from our personal experiences, that LGBTQ youth are healthier and happier when they are loved and encouraged to be themselves.”

“Family Equality Council is thrilled that Congressman Maloney is leading the effort to ban conversion therapy funded by Medicaid, which is the healthcare provider for foster children,” said Schylar Baber, Federal Policy Consultant at Family Equality Council. “Passage of this bill will mean that foster children, who often don’t have strong support from adults in their lives, will be able to trust that their medical providers will not subject them to this abusive procedure. As a foster care alumni who was subjected to conversion therapy while in care, I can’t overstate the importance of medical providers ensuring that all medical treatment is in the best interest and supports the well-being of the child.”

“Conversion therapy is a charlatan practice that has been widely debunked and discredited by healthcare professionals and banned by law in 15 states, Washington DC, and scores of municipalities and counties,” said Gal Mayer, MD, MS, President, GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ Equality. “As a healthcare provider, I know that these dangerous and unsuccessful attempts to alter a person’s sexuality or gender identity do not work and can result in mental health problems, substance use, and suicide. GLMA has been a staunch opponent of this indefensible, ineffective and fraudulent ‘therapy’ for decades, and fully supports the Prohibition of Medicaid Funding for Conversion Therapy Act introduced by Representative Sean Patrick Maloney, which would put an end to Medicaid payments for conversion therapy and represent the next step forward in completely eradicating this disgraceful practice in the US.”

“So-called ‘conversion therapy’ is a harmful, ineffective solution in search of a problem that doesn’t exist,” said Rick Zbur, Equality California Executive Director. “We should be using Medicaid dollars to expand access to quality, affordable care — not spending taxpayer money on dangerous junk science.”

Conversion “therapy” attempts to “cure” the sexual orientation or gender identity of members of the LGBTQ+ community. Despite being discredited by the American Psychiatric Association, American College of Physicians, American Academy of Child Adolescent Psychiatry, and other medical and civil rights organizations, thousands of innocent LGBTQ people are subjected to so-called “conversion” or “reparative therapy” each year. Research has found that the practice can lead to depression, decreases in self-esteem, substance abuse, homelessness, and even suicidal behavior. According to the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law, hundreds of thousands of LGBTQ young people have been forced to undergo the practice.

States currently decide which services Medicaid can cover and most have failed to ban the use of funding for conversion “therapy.” Because CMS codes do not mention the model of therapy being applied, even illegitimate practices can be performed and billed. The Prohibition of Medicaid Funding for Conversion Therapy Act would take several steps to combat the practice. First, it would legally define “conversion therapy” while ensuring that organizations which provide legitimate support to LGBTQ people are not at risk of losing funding. The bill would also ban the use of Medicaid funding for conversion “therapy” and ensure the practice is not paid for through the use of deceptive billing practices using CMS codes for mental and behavioral health.

The bill has been endorsed by The Trevor Project, Human Rights Campaign (HRC), National Education Association, PFLAG National, Gay & Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA), National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR), Council for Global Equality (CGE), National Center for Transgender Equality (NCTE), Third Way, True Colors Fund, Familia: Trans Queer Liberation Movement, Family Equality Council, AIDS United, Gay Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN), National Black Justice Coalition, National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund, Equality California.

The bill is cosponsored by Representatives: Ted Lieu, Tulsi Gabbard, Mark Takano, Suzanne Bonamici, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Alan Lowenthal, Charlie Crist, Adriano Espaillat, Eliot Engel, Andre Carson, Raul Grijalva, Steve Cohen, Derek Kilmer, Michael Doyle, Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, Jimmy Gomez, Betty McCollum, Chris Pappas, Earl Blumenauer, Eric Swalwell, Paul Tonko, Gregory Meeks, Juan Vargas, Brian Higgins, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Jackie Speier, Mark Pocan, Pramila Jayapal, Alcee Hastings, Seth Moulton, Dina Titus, Norma Torres, James Himes, Bobby Rush, Julia Brownley, Dan Kildee, Adam Smith, James McGovern, John Garamendi, Joseph Kennedy, Nydia Velazquez, Doris Matsui, Mike Quigley, Tim Ryan, David Cicilline, Grace Napolitano, Bill Foster, Angie Craig, Shiela Jackson Lee, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Scott Peters, Ilhan Omar, Jennifer Wexton, Peter DeFazio, Jerrold Nadler, Rose L. DeLauro, Susan Wild, Denny Heck, Debbie Watson Coleman, Barbara Lee, Jimmy Panetta, Robin L. Kelly, Anthony Brown.

ABOUT THE TREVOR PROJECT

The Trevor Project is the world's largest suicide prevention and crisis intervention organization for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) young people. The Trevor Project offers a suite of 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention programs, including TrevorLifeline, TrevorText, and TrevorChat as well as the world’s largest safe space social networking site for LGBTQ youth, TrevorSpace. Trevor also operates an education program with resources for youth-serving adults and organizations, an advocacy department fighting for pro-LGBTQ legislation and against anti-LGBTQ rhetoric/policy positions, and a research team to discover the most effective means to help young LGBTQ people in crisis and end suicide. If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

MEDIA CONTACT

Kevin Wong
The Trevor Project
646.576.7044
[email protected]