By D’Mychal Norwood, MSW, Counselor & LGBTQ+ Program Coordinator, Miami Bridge Youth & Family Services

Because the LGBTQIA+ community is already a vulnerable one, the pandemic has only served to heighten the levels of isolation, anxiety, and stress experienced by these individuals. Miami Bridge’s LGBTQIA+ program is helping to increase primary caregiver’s parenting skills, attitudes, and behaviors toward this community in order to bring awareness.

Following social distancing guidelines, counselors and program coordinatorsutilize technology to reach out to those youth and their parents who are not a part of the residential program. Zoom meetings are held to promote awareness and build connections. Sessions will be creatively constructed to encourage youth to verbally express concerns, share ideas, and build on networking as well as to provide a much-needed outlet for self-expression.

Through psychoeducational groups, LGBTQIA+ awareness is provided to all youth within Miami Bridge’s residential facility. In addition, staff are trained and continually updated on current information and events as it pertains to the impact on youth within the community to maintain an inclusive environment. The use of Zoom and other social-based platforms offer opportunities for youth to share and partake in activities that promote self-expression and empowerment. The Bridge is also working with other agencies to develop additional ways to reach these youth and build on a sense of community.

Because many households within Miami-Dade County have possibly two families and up to three generations living under one roof, having a safe space is crucial. Prior to the pandemic many youth faced persistent harassment and bullying at school. Now during the pandemic there is fear that these youth are having to suppress who they are or are becoming passive to lessen the disapproval.

The best way to promote safe and affirming environments is through education—even with regard to the use of proper terms and language so as not to promote a message of hate or dislike. For diversity to happen, we must first have diverse environments. Getting close to and familiarizing ourselves with the community is key. 

D’Mychal Norwood, MSW, is a counselor and coordinator of the LGBTQ+ Program at Miami Bridge Youth & Family Services, Miami-Dade County’s only emergency home serving kids ages 10 to 17. The organization also provides community-based programs offered to families whose children struggle with behavioral or academic issues at school and in their homes.