‘‘We have to be visible. We should not be ashamed of who we are.’’
-Sylvia Rivera
https://unsplash.com/@mrs80z
What is I.U.Y.?
I.U.Y was started by me, Zoey, as a way for LGBTQIA+ youth to receive support with coming out from other LGBTQIA+ teens in a safe and controlled environment. The goal is to create a safe place to reach out with questions you may have about other LGBTQ+ teens’ coming out stories that might relate to something you’re going through. Questions and guidance are only an email away. Understanders serve as an LGBTQIA+ friend to you. If you want to protect your identity, we recommend using an email address that does not include your name or any personal details.
I.U.Y. stands for ‘‘I Understand You.’’ I did not have any LGBTQIA+ people to talk to before and after I came out. The words I wished to hear from anyone were ‘‘I understand you,’’ but no one around me could say that and truly mean it. I.U.Y. was created so everyone can have access to those words and hear them in a safe environment.
IUY has also donated over 300+ chest binders to trans youth and adults throughout the United States and in over eight countries. We are always working to provide safe and affordable healthcare for all! To learn more about our offered resources or for partnership opportunities email zoey.iuy@gmail.com.
I.U.Y. is also not a suicide, abuse, or self-harm hotline. If you are struggling with any of these issues, visit our resource page for help.
If you have any questions or concerns about I.U.Y. please reach out to our email below.
iuy.zoey@gmail.com
How Does I.U.Y. Work?
I.U.Y. is based upon the goal of ‘‘Youth helping youth.’’ I.U.Y. stands as a place for everyone to share their story to help others going through a similar experience. Anyone under the age of 18 can reach out to the Understanders to ask coming out related questions. The Understanders are there to be listeners and friends to you. They are here to answer your questions based upon their experience in the LGBTQ+ community. The Understanders are here to actually be able to say ‘‘I understand you’’ when you feel like no one else can.
Can Anyone Share Their Story?
Yes! We love hearing new stories. Any LGBTQIA+ person 13+ can send in their story along with their name and a picture for their page, or a request to be anonymous. Unlike communicating with Understander, stories can be sent in from people 13+. All stories go through an editing process to protect the privacy of other people, prevent possible harmful content, and fix grammatical errors. We encourage everyone to share their story so it can reach and help people.
Not Sure What to Submit?
Read Stories from our website for inspiration!
Does IUY Have Any Partnerships?
Currently we have worked with Qchat, Trans Wellness Center in Los Angeles, and gc2b! We always would love to add more!
