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There is a huge need for foster and adoptive homes for LGBTQ+ youth in foster care. We interview Holly Harridan and Dr. Shelly Ronen. Holly is a Senior User Experience Researcher at Bloom Works and an applied Anthropologist with a background in queer and feminist studies. Dr. Shelly Ronen is a Senior User Experience Researcher at Bloom Works. She has a Ph.D. in Sociology and specializes in gender and sexuality.

In this episode, we cover:

Terminology. LGBTQ+, LGBTQIA2S+, queer. What does each of the letters mean, and what is correct?
What is the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity?
What are some of the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth in foster care?
What does it mean to have an” affirming” home?
Some foster and adoptive parents know in advance that the child that they are fostering or adopting identifies as LGBTQ+, but other times, it is something that they find out later. If they know in advance, what are some things they can do to prepare?
Age-dependent- how to allow exploration without pigeonholing a child too soon?
How should parents handle it if they suspect their child is queer, but their child or youth does not want to talk about it?
Are the issues different depending on whether the youth or young adult is lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender?
How can parents encourage healthy romantic relationships?
What if you’ve been raised to believe that homosexuality is a sin?
How do you think agencies should balance a commitment to kinship caregivers against a commitment to the safety and affirmation of LGBTQ+ children and youth?
What is your response to people who say that since many foster parents are motivated by religious faith, requiring families to affirm LGBTQ+ children and youth would create a placement crisis?
What resources can foster parents look to for guidance on being affirming of LGBTQ+ children and youth?

Our goal is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where LGBTQIA+ foster youth can grow, thrive, and develop a strong sense of self-worth and belonging.

For a list of resources from this episode, visit our post on Creating a Family.

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