1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

The proposed elimination of the 988 Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline's specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth is deeply concerning. According to CNN's reporting, this vital resource has connected over 1.2 million people to crucial support since its launch in 2022. Removing access to culturally competent counselors for this vulnerable population would be a devastating setback. LGBTQ+ youth face disproportionately high rates of suicidality, underscoring the critical need for dedicated crisis support tailored to their unique experiences and challenges. Stable funding for the 988 Lifeline and its specialized services is imperative to save lives and address the national mental health crisis. It would be counterproductive and dangerous to strip away proven initiatives championed by a bipartisan coalition. Comprehensive suicide prevention demands an intersectional approach recognizing how marginalized identities compound risks. Rather than scaling back resources, the administration should double down on expanding access to affirming, culturally responsive care for all at-risk communities.