Empowering LGBTQIA+ Voices: REACH LA's Groundbreaking Youth Summit

REACH LA Hosts the Inaugural LGBTQIA+ Youth Summit

On September 27, 2025, a significant event is set to take place at Emerson College in Los Angeles, California—a vibrant gathering that promises to amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ youth. This is not just any event; it is the first-ever LGBTQIA+ Youth Summit hosted by REACH LA in partnership with Emerson College, titled "Back To Our Roots." This one-day summit, running from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, is free of charge and invites the participation of LGBTQIA+ youth and their families.

The summit aims to foster empowerment, creativity, and community building within the LGBTQIA+ youth demographic. As advocates for inclusive spaces, REACH LA strives to create an environment that champions the unique perspectives of young individuals while nurturing connections between educators, parents, and community leaders.

A Day Full of Engagement and Support

The day promises a rich program filled with workshops that align with REACH LA's core themes: Mental Health and Wellness, Arts Innovation, Social Justice, and Workforce Development. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in various workshops designed to equip them with vital knowledge and skills. Not only will these workshops facilitate personal growth, but they will also create support networks within the community.

Beyond the workshops, the summit will provide a resource fair, free HIV testing, live performances, and numerous activities aimed at nurturing the spirit of creativity and solidarity. A safe and inclusive space will be established, allowing young people to share their hopes, challenges, and aspirations openly. Mentorship opportunities and essential resources will also be accessible, ensuring that attendees can thrive both personally and professionally.

Lucy Rangel, the Program Manager of Community Development at REACH LA, emphasized the importance of this summit in current societal contexts, stating, "Hosting this summit was so important to us, especially right now when conversations around LGBTQIA+ identities, particularly within BIPOC communities, continue to be harmful and divisive." Rangel's sentiments underline the necessity of amplifying voices that often face challenges and adversity.

Diverse Activities and Keynote Engagements

The summit is a fertile ground for creative expression, featuring activities such as a Vogue dance workshop led by the incredible Packrat and an art workshop conducted by Los Angeles-based community artist Jackie Hernandez. Additionally, the event will host guided meditation sessions, youth-led panels, and screenings of films submitted to the Los Angeles Public Library's Teens of L.A. Film Fest, all curated to uplift and inspire participants.

This event highlights cultural relevance, intersectionality, and a sense of community care, ensuring that every aspect resonates with the attendees in ways that are both meaningful and impactful. It provides a significant opportunity for LGBTQIA+ youth to build their resilience and support one another in their journeys.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

As part of the summit's vision, attendees are invited to RSVP to guarantee their participation. The summit acts as a crucial platform for youth to engage with their peers, share their stories, and gain valuable insights into their identities and futures. For additional information, individuals can visit the official REACH LA website to explore more about their initiatives and the resources they offer.

In a world where acceptance and understanding are frequently tested, events like the LGBTQIA+ Youth Summit are pivotal in ensuring that our youth feel seen, supported, and empowered. REACH LA continues to be a beacon of hope and strength for LGBTQIA+ youth in the community, working tirelessly to uplift and equip them for future success—and the summit is just one of many steps in that journey.