We will learn common language used to describe sexual and gender identities (including pronouns) and provide strategies for parents to engage their teens on this and on allyship, whether they identify as LGBTQ+ or not.
Sample Questions Discussed:
• What is the difference between sex and gender and what does “nonbinary” mean?
• How, when, and why should I use they/them pronouns? What if I don’t know someone’s pronoun or use the wrong one?
• How can I support my child (or their friend) when they “come out?”
Lizzy Appleby, LCSW directs the Pride Youth Program, which supports more than 250 LGBTQ+ youth and their families across the North Shore. She also presents annually to New Trier’s sophomore health classes in partnership with LGBTQ+ student leaders. Lizzy grew up in Wilmette, graduated from New Trier, and received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Chicago. She is deeply committed to working with north suburban communities to ensure that all individuals are celebrated for their authentic selves, and to building a more welcoming, inclusive and kind world.