SAN JOSE, CA – Santa Clara County youth kicked off Pride Month with the annual Unity Youth Conference on Saturday, June 7, at the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE). This year’s theme, Rewriting Our Stars, celebrated youth rewriting their narratives, challenging social norms, and envisioning a future where everyone can shine as their true, unapologetic selves.
The conference is designed by and for LGBTQ+ youth, emphasizing empowerment, creative expression, and activism. Student leaders from the SCCOE’s Tobacco Use Prevention Education (TUPE) Peer Advocate Advisory Council (PAAC), Gay Straight Alliances (GSA) in collaboration with partnering school districts and LGBTQ+ allies coordinated the conference.
Emceed by local drag royalty and community leaders, the event featured student performers, original artwork, and creative showcases. Workshops focused on identity, advocacy, and wellness.
- Modern Day Truth Seeking by Queer Hope Institute: Using data and personal narratives to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
- Are Pronouns Really That Important? (Yes) by Allcove Palot Alto: Exploring language and gender identity in precolonial cultures.
- BIPOC Queer Identity and Advocacy by Pride Social South County: Addressing intersectionality and community justice.
- College Panel hosted by De Anza College and San Jose State University: LGBTQ+ college students share their lived experiences
- Clearing the Air on Cannabis by Santa Clara County Public Health Department: Discussing substance use trends and solutions among LGBTQIA+ youth
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About the Santa Clara County Office of Education
Working collaboratively with school and community partners, the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) is a regional service agency committed to serving, inspiring, and promoting student and public school success. For more information about the Santa Clara County Office of Education, please visit www.sccoe.org and follow us @SCCOE on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 
