This report examines the overrepresentation, vulnerability to discrimination, profiling, and mistreatment that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth experience in the juvenile and criminal justice systems, particularly in court proceedings, detention, and reentry. Coauthored by the Movement Advancement Project and the Center for American Progress, the report also identifies pervasive anti-LGBTQ stigma and discrimination in families, communities, and schools and in the enforcement of laws related to sexual behavior and drug use. It concludes with recommendations for reducing criminal justice involvement for LGBTQ youth; ensuring fair treatment within the justice system and safety, dignity, and health care within confinement facilities; and improving supports for LGBTQ youth upon reentry.
Population of focus: Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth
Links to resource:
- Full report (pdf)
- See the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention’s Model Programs Guide literature review on LGBTQ youth in the juvenile justice system
- The OJJDP listening session report “Creating and Sustaining Fair and Beneficial Environments for LGBTQ Youth”
Date: 2016
Organization: Movement Advancement Project and the Center for American Progress