RainbowYOUTH is expanding its ‘I’m Local’ campaign into Waikato to coincide with the opening of Waikato Queer Youth’s new centre in Hamilton. First launched in Northland in May, I’m Local is an effort to help more rural communities support their lgbtiq youth. It offers organisations such as schools, libraries, medical centres and mārae free information, resources and posters to display. The project was created by RainbowYOUTH’s communications manager Toni Duder, after she reflected on her own experiences growing up as a lesbian in the small Northland town of Dargaville. “I remember I had no clue what my feelings were or how to deal with them until I went to boarding school in Auckland. My mum and I often reflect that I probably wouldn’t be here if I hadn’t gone to Auckland. It’s tough for someone growing up different in small, rural communities.” It’s been possible thanks to funding from the US Embassy, and 70 organisations nationwide have climbed on board since its inception. I’m Local will celebrate its official Waikato launch during Waikato Queer Youth’s (WaQuY) open day on the 5 of November, when it marks its move to new premises at 108 Alexandra Street in Hamilton Central. The open day begins at 11AM, with the formalities from 2PM.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 28th October 2014 - 12:12pm