Are there children identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT)?
Well, of course. (WATCH: This boy teaches teens about gender & diversity)
Because of misinformation, some of these children experience stigma, abuse, and discrimination. All these can hurt a child’s mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
In schools, LGBT children can become targets of bullying – not only among classmates but even from teachers. (WATCH: Don't be afraid to express yourself)
At worst, some of them suffer in the hands of their own families. In other cases, children of LGBT couples are ridiculed.
These could be prevented if only adults and children alike were well-informed on gender, sexuality, and children’s rights.
All children – regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity – deserve love, respect, and acceptance.
Advocate
Meet Dominico Gapas, a social worker at Save the Children. He also goes by the nickname Mutya, which roughly translates to “beloved.”
At only 26, Mutya has worked on several projects that empower children across Visayas.
Mutya is advocating for the rights of all children. (WATCH: Can boys play with dolls?)
Among his missions is to raise awareness about the problems experienced by LGBT children in the Philippines.
Millennials like Mutya shows that the youth can take on development work too. Like him, are you up for the challenge to save the children?