More than 100 prominent celebrities have come together to sign an open letter directed at the Trump Administration and Congress, urging them not to cut funding for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services. This plea comes in response to a leaked budget draft suggesting plans to eliminate funding for the program, which plays a crucial role in providing emergency crisis support to LGBTQ+ youth who may be contemplating suicide. If enacted, these budget cuts would take effect on October 1.
The Trevor Project, an organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth, has taken the initiative to write this letter, reaching out to lawmakers to advocate for the continuation of this vital service in the forthcoming Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The letter boasts signatures from a diverse array of celebrities including Ariana Grande, Pedro Pascal, Daniel Radcliffe, Gabrielle Union-Wade, Dwyane Wade, Jamie Lee Curtis, Dua Lipa, and many others who stand united in their support.
In the letter, the signatories state, “This is about people, not politics. At a time of deep division, let this be something we as people can all agree on: no young person should be left without help in their darkest moment.” They emphasize that interrupting this essential lifeline sends a damaging message to LGBTQ+ youth, implying that their lives are not valuable.
Statistics from The Trevor Project indicate a staggering reality: over 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S. contemplate suicide each year, with at least one attempt occurring every 45 seconds. The LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services have reached over 1.2 million individuals, providing inclusive crisis support, while the 988 Lifeline has assisted more than 14 million people, underscoring the importance of these services.
Interestingly, following Trump’s inauguration, there was a notable increase in calls and messages to The Trevor Project’s crisis services, highlighting a growing need for support during tumultuous times. The organization recorded a 33 percent rise in calls on the inauguration day compared to previous weeks and an even steeper 46 percent on the following day.
The letter concludes with a powerful message for LGBTQ+ youth: “You are not alone. We see you. We value you. You have the right to feel safe, supported, and loved exactly as you are.” This dedication to raising awareness and fighting for the rights of LGBTQ+ youth showcases a hopeful commitment to ensuring that every young person has access to the support they deserve in their times of need.