Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside Trump Tower in New York on Saturday (12 July), urging the US government to reverse plans to shut down a critical LGBTQ+ youth crisis support line.
The protest, known as “Hands Off 988”, was sparked by recent confirmation that the specialised LGBTQ+ youth option within the national 988 Lifeline — referred to as the “Press 3” option — will be permanently discontinued on Thursday, 17 July.
Developed in partnership with The Trevor Project, the Press 3 service has provided essential support to more than 1.3 million LGBTQ+ young people navigating mental health challenges, emotional distress, or other urgent concerns.
Following leaked federal budget documents last month, it was revealed that funding would be eliminated for LGBTQ+ youth-specific services within 988 — prompting outcry from advocates and organisations nationwide.
“This means that, in 30 short days, this programme that has provided life-saving services to more than 1.3 million LGBTQ+ young people will no longer be available for those who need it,” said Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project.
“Mental health care is about people, not politics. The administration’s decision to remove a bipartisan, evidence-based service that has effectively supported a high-risk group of young people through their darkest moments is incomprehensible.”
At Saturday’s protest, Mark Henson, interim vice-president for advocacy and government affairs at The Trevor Project, told CBS:
“If this programme goes away, the question is, will they feel comfortable reaching out? LGBTQ youth in our country are experiencing a mental-health crisis. That’s the reason why these services were set up — so that tailored care can be available to help keep them alive.”
Rachael Fried, executive director of Jewish Queer Youth, added:
“Cutting services for LGBTQ youth through the 988 Lifeline will have deadly consequences. The fact that it exists sends a message that queer youth actually matter.”
Federal Response Amidst Backlash
A White House spokesperson for the Office of Management and Budget told Reuters that the 988 programme would still be funded at $520 million, the same level as under President Biden. However, the updated plan removes support for LGBTQ-specific services, stating:
“The budget does not grant taxpayer money to a chat service where children are encouraged to embrace radical gender ideology by counsellors without [the] consent or knowledge of their parents.”
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offered a more reassuring stance:
“Everyone who contacts the 988 Lifeline will continue to receive access to skilled, caring, culturally competent crisis counsellors who can help with mental-health struggles, substance use, or any other kind of emotional distress. Anyone who calls will continue to receive compassion and help.”
However, advocates argue that general support cannot replace the value of LGBTQ+ tailored care, which recognises the unique experiences and pressures faced by queer youth.
High-Profile Support for the Programme
Celebrities including Ariana Grande, Pedro Pascal, and Daniel Radcliffe have signed an open letter urging lawmakers to protect the estimated $50 million in funding that ensures the availability of specialised LGBTQ+ crisis care.
For now, LGBTQ+ young people can continue accessing 988’s tailored services until 17 July. After that, while the general lifeline will remain open, the dedicated LGBTQ+ support will no longer be available. The Trevor Project will continue to offer direct help independently of the 988 network.
