Supporting LGBTIQA+ Youth and Wear it Purple

We dive into why LGBTQIA youth spaces like Wear It Purple Day remain crucial nearly fifteen years after launching, as queer young Australians continue to experience bullying and discrimination. Reb from Minus18 shares powerful stories from Queer Formal events where isolated young people meet their community for the first time and experience life-changing affirmation. We discuss how social media bans create additional barriers for regional youth while hate groups continue targeting safe spaces and attempting to sabotage events. Finally, we offer practical advice for parents, educators, and allies who want to support young people without burdening them with the responsibility of teaching adults. Chapters 00:43 – Introducing Wear It Purple Day and its history 02:25 – How bullying and isolation have changed since 2010 04:58 – How Minu18 supports and amplifies Purple Day 06:36 – Ripple effects of visible workplace and school support 10:43 – Powerful Queer Formal personal stories shared 15:44 – Why dedicated youth spaces still matter today 17:56 – Making queer friends without school pride groups 22:31 – Strategies after social media ban removes access 25:12 – Protecting mental health while supporting marginalised communities 31:00 – Advice for parents learning to accept and support All chapter timecodes are approximate. Want more Well Well Well? Check out our other JOY Podcasts for more on LGBTIQ+ health and wellbeing at joy.org.au/wellwellwell. If there’s something you’d like us to explore on the show, send through ideas or questions at [email protected] Find out more about LGBTIQ+ services and events in Victoria and South Australia at thorneharbour.org. Produced by: Jack Crnjanin