1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The federal decision under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to eliminate dedicated services for LGBTQ youth through the 988 national suicide and crisis hotline is deeply troubling. LGBTQ adolescents face suicide attempt rates four times higher than their peers, underscoring the critical need for counselors with specialized training to compassionately address the marginalization, discrimination, and lack of support these vulnerable young people often experience. Removing this lifeline threatens to leave LGBTQ youth in crisis without culturally competent care tailored to their distinct challenges. Rather than stripping vital resources, we must expand mental health support for all youth, particularly those in marginalized communities who confront heightened risks. I urge you to intervene and prevent this harmful policy from moving forward, safeguarding the wellbeing and lives of LGBTQ adolescents nationwide.