As students prepare to return to classrooms this month, a new Westmoreland County LGBTQ+ advocacy organization is inviting the community to show up in support of transgender and nonbinary youth.
Queer Westmoreland will host its first “Every Student Matters Rally” on Saturday, August 15, from noon to 4 p.m. in the courtyard of the Westmoreland County Courthouse in Greensburg. Organizers say the event is intended to affirm that transgender and nonbinary students are valued members of the community as they head into a new school year.
The public rally will feature community speakers, opportunities for community engagement, and a clothing giveaway for children and teens in partnership with Grassroots Westmoreland.
Attendees are also encouraged to bring donations of nonperishable food, hygiene products, school supplies, and children’s or teen clothing. Donations are welcome but not required. All donated items will be distributed to local families through Grassroots Westmoreland.
“Every student deserves to know they are valued, respected, and supported by their community,” said Ash Franzetti, founder of Queer Westmoreland. “This rally is an opportunity for neighbors, families, faith communities, and local organizations to stand together and remind transgender and nonbinary students that they are not alone.”
Founded earlier this year, Queer Westmoreland is a county-based advocacy organization focused on supporting transgender and nonbinary people through community engagement, education, and mutual aid.
The organization is encouraging community organizations, faith communities, families, allies, and local residents to attend. Participants are welcome to stay for the entire event or stop by throughout the afternoon.