Celebrities Unite to Protect LGBTQ+ Youth Suicide Prevention Funding

Los Angeles, CA — Celebrities including Ariana Grande, Pedro Pascal, and Jamie Lee Curtis signed an open letter Monday to oppose the federal funding cuts for LGBTQ+ youth suicide prevention services. The letter, organized by The Trevor Project, was released during Pride Month and has garnered support from over 100 public figures across the entertainment industry.

The letter calls attention to a proposal from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services aimed at eliminating funding for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s specialized services for LGBTQ+ youth. Since its inception in 2022, the 988 Lifeline has assisted over 1.3 million crisis calls, offering essential support to at-risk LGBTQ+ young people.

<p“As artists, creators, and public figures, our platforms come with responsibility. And today, that responsibility is clear: we must speak out to protect the mental health and lives of LGBTQ+ youth,” the letter reads. “We will not stay silent.”

The signatories highlight a significant public health issue, noting that LGBTQ+ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide compared to their peers. The letter emphasizes, “This is about people, not politics. No young person should be left without help in their darkest moment.”

Within the letter, the celebrities urge Congress and the administration to restore and secure funding for LGBTQ+ youth in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The letter continues with a message of solidarity directed toward LGBTQ+ youth: “You are not alone. We see you. We value you.”

Other prominent names on the letter include Dua Lipa, Nathan Lane, and Sarah Paulson. Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project, expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “Suicide prevention is about people – not politics.”

The open letter remains dynamic, as it will continue to be updated with new signatories. Advocates are encouraged to keep fighting for funding that saves young lives.