In the U.S., there are an estimated 20 million LGBTQ+ adults and more than 2 million LGBTQ+ youth. Data conveys that while using the internet is incredibly widespread in the United States, LGBTQ+ youth spend an average of 45 minutes more per day online than their non-LGBTQ+ peers, and two-thirds of LGBTQ+ youth may use the Internet to connect with other LGBTQ+ people at any point in a given year. In fact, 50% of LGBTQ+ youth have at least one close online friend, compared to 19% of non-LGBTQ+ youth. However, with this increased exposure to online spaces, LGBTQ+ youth are often targeted for cyber-bullying; this report found that 25% of LGBTQ youth, 33% of LGBTQ youth of color and 34% of transgender youth are bullied online or electronically—for caregivers and LGBTQ+ youth, navigating these dual realities can be complicated.

Positive online spaces allow LGBTQ+ people to develop language to express their authentic identities—73% of LGBTQ+ youth say they are more honest online than in the ‘real world.’ Additionally, the internet provides invaluable resources to LGBTQ+ individuals, that were once unavailable, such as mental health services, same-sex sexual education and information on transitioning. While social media allows for LGBTQ+ youth to find valuable resources, it has also become a tool for perpetuating negative attitudes around body image. LGBTQ+ youth are particularly susceptible to unhealthy messaging around body image, as they often have different ways of expressing their sexual orientations or gender identities from their peers.

In June, T-Mobile pledged a multi-year donation to support new work at HRC Foundation to advance digital literacy and safety among LGBTQ+ youth and those who have multiple marginalized identities; the new programming will provide education about cyberbullying and internet safety. According to The Center for American Progress, 50% of Americans have someone close to them who is gay or lesbian. About four in ten (42%) Americans personally know someone who is transgender.

HRC first observed NCOD on the anniversary of the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, 33 years ago. Now, advocates and activists have joined forces in support of The Equality Act, landmark federal legislation that would modernize our nation’s civil rights laws by including explicit protections for LGBTQ+ people, as well as improve protections for women, people of color, and people of all faiths.

In addition, HRC asked supporters to record messages of support to LGBTQ+ youth who are in the process of coming out—thousands of heartwarming messages were compiled into this audio quilt. Similar affirmations, regarding the coming out experience and celebrating NCOD, can be viewed here. For more information and resources on NCOD, visit HRC’s Coming Out Center, which showcases various Coming Out Guides for the LGBTQ+ community.