In a remarkable celebration of resilience, Teen Vogue and GLAAD honour inspiring LGBTQ youth in their annual ’20 Under 20′ list, recognising their significant contributions to advocacy and social justice.
In a celebration of resilience and excellence, Teen Vogue, in collaboration with GLAAD, has unveiled the annual 20 Under 20 list, honouring inspiring LGBTQ+ youth across the United States. This initiative recognises young individuals who have made significant contributions to advocacy, art, sports, and social justice, even amid ongoing challenges to their rights.
Every year, GLAAD conducts a broad search to identify outstanding queer youth who are not only surviving but thriving despite societal and legislative barriers. The honorees are selected for their remarkable achievements and their efforts in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility. This year’s list is sponsored by Delta and presented with special thanks to Anthony Allen Ramos and Yolanda Lenge, featuring custom illustrations by artist Kim Salt.
Aarna Dixit, a dedicated reproductive justice activist, has established herself through a range of impactful initiatives. Dixit co-hosts the podcast Dirty Talk, which addresses topics such as UTIs, pornography culture, and masturbation through unfiltered educational conversations. Her involvement with international reproductive justice organisations like Planned Parenthood and Swasti, a public health organisation in India, has further cemented her role as an advocate.
Dixit has also led a campaign at her university to promote safe medication abortion access on campus, showing her commitment to making reproductive healthcare accessible. Nearly five years ago, the American Academy of Pediatrics featured her in a video campaign about consent, where she emphasised its importance in respecting oneself and others.
Dixit’s advocacy is intersectional, recognising that queer individuals often encounter the most significant barriers in accessing reproductive healthcare. “Advocating for LGBTQ+ communities is essential as it allows us to envision more empowered communities, less plagued by oppressive institutions of patriarchy and heteronormativity,” Dixit shared with GLAAD.
A gifted writer and public speaker, including appearances at TedXYouth, Dixit is set to graduate from NYU soon. She continues to work towards a world where everyone can be their most liberated and empowered selves.
Adelyn Vigil, at just 16 years old, has become a prominent advocate for trans rights. Vigil’s dedication to her cause has made her a notable figure in her community and beyond. Her activism work and the resulting positive changes have shown her commitment to ensuring a safer and more inclusive world for transgender individuals.
Vigil’s journey in activism began at a young age, driven by her personal experiences as a transgender individual. She has focused on addressing the specific challenges faced by transgender youth, including advocating for equality in educational institutions and pushing for better healthcare access.
The inclusion of these young changemakers in the 20 Under 20 list not only highlights their individual achievements but also underscores the broader movement towards acceptance and equality for LGBTQ individuals. Despite facing significant opposition from a vocal minority, the majority of Americans support LGBTQ+ rights and the notion that all youth should feel safe at school and in society.
The honorees of the 2024 GLAAD 20 Under 20 prove that the next generation of leaders, artists, and activists are undaunted by the obstacles they face. Their collective efforts are paving the way for a future where all individuals can live with safety, respect, and dignity.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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