We advocate for LGBTQ youth so they can seize each day and prepare for the future.
Through youth leadership, SMYAL creates opportunities for LGBTQ youth to build self-confidence, develop critical life skills, and engage their peers and community through service and advocacy.
Youth Services
Need inspiration for your next GSA campaign? On the hunt for scholarships? We’ve got your back.
Learn MoreGiving Back
From volunteering to donations, the opportunities to support LGBTQ youth are endless.
Get Involved With SMYALHousing
LGBTQ youth deserve a place to live, learn, and grow. That’s why our transitional housing program includes mental health services, networking, mentorship, and more.
Learn MoreEmpower LGBTQ Youth to Thrive
With 40% of youth experiencing homelessness identifying as LGBTQ, our mission has never been more clear. From transitional housing to leadership development, SMYAL serves at-risk youth as they overcome the challenges associated with their identity. Our services are made possible by the generous contributions of our community. Help SMYAL continue to make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ youth.
Upcoming Events
October 20, 2019
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10:30 am - 2 pm
22nd Annual Fall Brunch
The Fall Brunch Co-Chairs Lamar Braithwaite, Kelly Laczko, and Devon Trotter, SMYAL Executive Director Sultan Shakir, and members of the Board invite you to this year’s Fall Brunch fundraiser. SMYAL’s premiere event, the annual Fall Brunch, includes a cocktail reception featuring a fabulous silent auction, a three-course brunch, and a chance to hear from some of our community’s most inspiring leaders. Join us on Sunday, October 20th, at the Marriott Marquis. Every year, the Fall Brunch brings together LGBTQ and allied community members, friends, and families in support of the inspirational youth SMYAL works with every day.
Marriott Marquis
901 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20001
In the News
More than a dozen leaders and members of local LGBT advocacy groups met on Oct. 11 with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and D.C. Council Chair Phil Mendelson (D-At-Large) to discuss challenges facing the most vulnerable members of the LGBT community.
“I thought the meeting with the mayor, Chairman Mendelson, and members of the Council was productive and a positive next step in addressing some of the frustrations from local organizations — frustrations both about the budget process as well as with engaging with agencies that are key to the health and safety of the LGBTQ community,” said Sultan Shakir. “We’re looking forward to working with the mayor on recent funding requests as well as with D.C. agency directors to engage around how we can collectively address some of the real and urgent issues that are impacting the LGBTQ community."
www.washingtonblade.com/2019/10/21/activists-call-meeting-with-mayor-dc-council-chair-productive/
Activists call meeting with mayor, DC Council chair 'productive'
www.washingtonblade.com
More than a dozen LGBT activists on Oct. 11 met with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson.SMYAL is honored to present Ava Benach with the 2019 Community Advocate Award!
Ava is a leader in her field representing #LGBTQ asylum seekers while training the next generation of lawyers in representing LGBTQ immigrants.
Join us in congratulating Ava for her tireless advocacy and for inspiring those around her to be unapologetically themselves!
If you're nervous to ask someone their pronouns, or aren't really sure how to do it, check out this awesome video!
Offering your pronouns first is also a really great way to start the conversation and make people feel more comfortable. #PronounsDay19
www.youtube.com/watch?v=r-al4liNLBU
www.youtube.com
This video was produced for the True Colors Fund Learning Community, which focuses on establishing a common understanding about lesbian, gay, bisexual, and t...So...what are pronouns? #PronounsDay19 #AskMeMyPronouns
www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xpvricekxU
www.youtube.com
Here’s our guide on what pronouns are, why they matter, and how to use new ones and support your trans friends! minus18.org.au/pronouns When you come ...SMYAL is proud to endorse #PronounsDay19!
International Pronouns Day seeks to make respecting, sharing, and educating about personal pronouns commonplace. Referring to people by the pronouns they determine for themselves is basic to human dignity.
Let us know why you #ShareYourPronouns!
