NAPLES, Fla. — Naples Pride is witnessing a significant uptick in calls, particularly from concerned parents. This surge reflects the heightened anxiety permeating families in the aftermath of the recent presidential election.
The Trevor Project, a dedicated organization focused on suicide prevention within the LGBTQ community, reported an astonishing nearly 700% increase in calls on November 6, the day following the election. This alarming statistic showcases the deep-seated worries gripping the LGBTQ community and their families.
“We’ve had a lot of parents of LGBTQ students reaching out, and that is particularly disheartening,” shared Callhan Solodavini, a board member with Naples Pride. “Children are really caught up in a lot of what the election produced.” Their voices resonate through these calls, marked by a profound blend of fear and hope for their children’s futures.
Watch below to explore the reasons behind the increase in calls from parents:
Naples Pride sees increase in calls from parents following presidential election
President-elect Donald Trump, during a rally prior to the election, made controversial remarks, stating, “We will get…transgender insanity out of our schools and we will keep men out of women’s sports.” Such statements fueled fear and anxiety, leading to a sense of impending loss within the LGBTQ community.
“There was so much fear-mongering and anti-LGBTQ rhetoric pushed down on people during the election,” Solodavini remarked. This rhetoric has fostered a climate of dread regarding potential rollbacks of rights for the LGBTQ community, particularly concerning access to healthcare and gender-affirming care. This fear is not unfounded; many families feel the weight of societal rejection.
“They struggle with being who they are in a society that inherently doesn’t accept their existence,” Solodavini explained, heartache evident in her voice. The harsh reality is that it is the transgender community facing hate crimes, violence, and discrimination, leaving many families grappling with feelings of helplessness.
The issues surrounding LGBTQ rights have persisted for years. Recently, a federal judge blocked a 2023 Florida law that sought to ban gender-affirming care for minors, a small victory in a landscape fraught with challenge.
To address these pressing needs, Naples Pride has stepped up its efforts. “We are continuing to try and provide resources to parents,” Solodavini said, her dedication shining through. They plan to launch a program offering mental health services with licensed practitioners to those unable to afford it—an initiative expected to begin in mid-January. This response to the political climate speaks volumes about their commitment and urgency.
In a community filled with struggles and triumphs, Naples Pride remains a beacon of hope. They are determined to provide ongoing support for anyone in need, reinforcing the message that no one should feel alone in this journey.
