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Much can be done to increase sensitivity in our communities, institutions, and schools that will decrease the marginalization of LGBT populations.

Parents are vital players in improving support systems and decreasing challenges faced by LGBT youth. Most parents of LGBT youth are not members of the gay community and may feel powerless or unsure how to advocate on their sons' or daughters' behalf. Involvement with groups such as Parents and Friends of Lesbian and Gay (PFLAG) can help parents understand how to support their children and get support for themselves as well.

Research reports that the single most significant resiliency factor for LGBT youth is a healthy relationship with one affirming adult. [Source] If an LGBT youth is rejected by his/her family it is important for him/her to seek an affirming relationship with another adult. As it is stated, "We all have two families...one, is the family we are born with and the other is the family that we create by selecting those people that we surround ourselves with." (White Wolf's Den).

There are steps each one of us can take to support a friend, colleague, or family member who is struggling with sexual identity issues. The following sections will help provide ideas and resources about how and where to begin.