Members of the LGBTQ+ community in South Dakota are concerned about what a second Trump presidency could mean for their safety, rights and protections.
Zach Eisenstein, communications director for The Trevor Project, said following Election Day, his organization saw a 700% increase in calls, texts and chats compared to weeks prior, the biggest daily surge since they started offering 24/7 services in 2019. For years, the organization has provided LGBTQ+ youths help for health challenges like depression, anxiety and suicide.
Eisenstein emphasized despite the real fear, he knows the community will be resilient.
“We have to acknowledge this is a difficult time and there are many challenges that lie ahead but this is not new for the LGBTQ+ community,” Eisenstein pointed out. “Throughout our history, our community has had to fight for our rights and we will continue to do so, just as we always have.”
Eisenstein noted The Trevor Project’s mission will remain the same, no matter who is in the White House. He added they have developed a new guide to help people navigate challenging times, with ideas for taking time to disconnect and prioritize mental health, find community and get involved with local LGBTQ+ organizations.
Eisenstein reminded voters laws and policies do not change overnight. He added there were some notable wins at the state level, with LGBTQ+ candidates winning state offices. States also passed ballot measures, adding protections for marriage equality in California, Colorado and Hawaii.
“We’re really encouraging folks to just give themselves the permission to take things one step at a time and really take care of themselves and their mental health right now,” Eisenstein added.
More than half of LGBTQ+ youth in South Dakota reported in 2022 having seriously considered suicide in the previous year.
If you or someone you know needs support, you can reach The Trevor Project by calling 1-866-488-7386 or by texting ‘START’ to 678-678.
