We’re happy to release a new issue of Spectrum Spotlight! Since we started NextGen, we’ve been figuring out what works, what’s needed, and how we can get it done. We’re happy to continue these efforts with you and shift things as we move along. Thanks for being here!

Welcome to Spectrum Spotlight, a newsletter offering by NextGen College Ambassadors, Garden State Equality’s latest advocacy program for young adults aged 18-26. We share the latest LGBTQ+ events, jobs and internships, and other ways to build community throughout the Garden State.

NextGen Updates!

We <3 our E-Board!

We’re happy to have monthly meetings with our small but mighty E-Board! Our E-Board consists of two amazing members, Bailey Kelly & Isabella Barquin, two college students who have been a part of GSE’s youth programming over the last few years!

Whether it’s facilitating our NextGen Community Calls or helping with graphic design, we appreciate the efforts from our E-Board and are proud to work with them! In the new year, we hope to increase our outreach to more folks who want to help lead NextGen programming!

If that’s you, email us at nextgen@gardenstateequality.org :)

Building ~ community ~ with our Monthly Community Calls!

Every second Monday of the month, we host Community Calls for anyone who wants to (virtually) meet like-minded people in the Garden State! We are planning some in-person gatherings for next year, so stay tuned for that!

During November’s Community Call, we discussed ways to stay involved in advocacy efforts post-gubernatorial race.

Some takeaways:

1. Use the 5Calls app to easily contact your representatives

2. Invite friends out to lobby/canvass/protest/etc with you! Make it fun!

3. Share easy-to-understand summaries of causes you’re passionate about. Send them to your loved ones so they stay informed!

We are also starting Passion Talks, a time for members to share a topic they care about to practice public speaking… and geek out about cool things, helloo!

If you’re interested in yapping with us, sign up here!

Our next member meetings are: 12/8, 1/12, and 2/9 at 7:30 pm via Zoom! RSVP here!

Jobs & Internships Highlights

→Intern with Garden State Equality!

"You don’t need to have nonprofit experience—just a willingness to learn, show up, and grow. Whether you’re into organizing, social media, creative work, admin, or just figuring out what you love, there’s room for you here." 

Apply here!

→Canvass Office Director (full-time)

Build strong community connection and civic engagement with this role!

Apply here!

→Youth Coordinator (part-time)

Organize empowering programs for youth 8-24!

More info here!

Looking for more opportunities? Click here to see our complete list!

December Policy Updates

• World AIDS Day: For the first time since 1988, the federal government decided not to commemorate World AIDS Day. The Trump Administration says they will be “modernizing our approach to countering infectious diseases”. This statement comes after the government cut billions of dollars in HIV/AIDS prevention programs and other foreign-aid health programs.

• SCOTUS Ruling on Same-Sex Marriage: On November 10, the Supreme Court upheld its 2015 ruling on samesex marriage equality. The petition to overturn the decison was filed by Kim Davis, a fomer Kentucky county clerk.

• Trans Athletes Ban: On January 13th, two cases on transgender athlete bans will go to the Supreme Court. The cases, West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox, involve banning trans girls and women student athletes from playing on girls/women’s sports teams.

  Click here to see more updates on anti-LGBTQ bills in NJ & around the U.S

Check out these cool events happening this month!

→Cookies, Cocoa & Caroling

Date: Wednesday, December 17, from 6-8 pm in Cape May

Live piano and holiday sweets? YES!!

RSVP here!

→Home for the Holidays Party

Date: Thursday, December 18, from 5-7 pm

Our 9th annual holiday party is the perfect time to check out our new headquarters! (21+ event)

RSVP here!

Looking for more events? Click here for more LGBTQ+ events happening near you!

⋆˚✿˖°Monthly Gems for Nextgen ⋆˚✿˖°

An uplifting affirmation from the magical Garden State Equality Project Manager, Hime.

Deep Breath December

Wow, what a year it has been.

I invite you to take a breath with me and find your heart rhythm.

Breathe in

2

3

4

Breathe out

2

3

4

You are alive at this moment.

Your experiences this year have been varied and brought many energy shifts.

I am so proud of you for making it to today.

Thank you to those who took a moment to breathe with me, and if you didn’t, I’d encourage you to try it on your own time.

Growth is inevitable, and with it can come anxiety, overthinking, or excitement.

Allowing yourself to acknowledge the emotions is helpful in the journey through.

You have lived, learned, and are in store for more.

I wish you lots of luck and love in any of the challenges and moments of growth that you may experience this month. This may include final exams, a big work project, or a new life shift. Whatever journey you are on, you are not alone.

You are loved.

Click here to learn more about us

Subscribe now

Welcome to Spectrum Spotlight, a monthly newsletter offering by NextGen College Ambassadors, Garden State Equality’s latest advocacy program for young adults aged 18-26. We share the latest LGBTQ+ events, jobs and internships, and other ways to build community throughout the Garden State.

NextGen Updates!

Our E-Board met in person at our GSE headquarters for the first time on April 26! We brainstormed ideas to take NextGen to the next (lol) level! We hope you can join us for our member meeting soon! Stay tuned for more details!

Any questions about NextGen?

Email Sawyer at sussner@gardenstateequality.org for more details!

Introducing Transcend U! garden State equality’s new Trans College Advisory Board!

Do you have Trans students at your school looking to get involved? They may be interested in joining an interscholastic Trans College Advisory Board, a collaborative alliance designed to empower college age students to thrive—not just survive—through community support, sharing resources, and meaningful opportunities for growth. College can be an isolating experience, but you have community and allies all across the state. Let's help build a more resilient Trans community!

Fill out this form to find out more!

Jobs & Internships Highlights:

→Social Media/PR Intern

"Abortion Positivity Project works to spread abortion positive messaging through the media channels that have people’s attention including social media and podcasts." 

Apply here!

→Junior and Senior Summer Camp Counselor with Garden State Equality!

Want to join us this summer at camp? We have a few spots open for you to experience a leadership outdoor program like no other!

Apply here!

→Receptionist (Full-time)

Support families in crisis with this on-site role at Newark Emergency Services for Familes.

Apply here!

Looking for more opportunities? Click here to see our complete list!

April Policy Updates

By Sawyer Sussner, Garden State Equality Fellow [extraordinaire]

• LGBTQ+ Health Research: On May 1, the Trump Administration confirmed that they are canceling nearly $800 million in grants to the National Institute of Health, which would have addressed research for sexual health and minority groups.

• Gender Affirming Care for Minors: The Trump administration released a “report” earlier this month, inaccurately depicting gender affirming care for minors. This report promotes conversion “therapy” as well as denying gender affirming care as medically necessary

• Transgender Military Ban: On May 6, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Trump’s transgender military ban, which would prohibit trans and gender diverse members of the military from participating in the service. This comes after Trump’s statement that claimed that having a gender identity different from one’s assigned gender at birth “conflicts” with “an honorable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle.”

Click here to see more updates on anti-LGBTQ bills in NJ & around the U.S

Check out these cool events happening this month!

→Transcend Picnic!

Date: Monday May 26 @ 12 pm

Let’s touch grass~~ @ the beautiful Liberty State Park!

RSVP here!

→FREE Trans & Nonbinary Community Meetup and Spaghetti Dinner

Food and Trans/GD+ community? Sign us up!! And its a sober event!

Date: Sunday May 25 @ 2 pm

RSVP here!

Looking for more events? Click here for more LGBTQ+ events happening near you!

⋆˚✿˖°Monthly Gems for Nextgen ⋆˚✿˖°

An uplifting affirmation from the magical Garden State Equality Project Manager, Hime.

Meditation May

Hey y'all <3

You are near the end of another semester.

Plans have shifted, Classes may have been added or dropped, and the chaos of our current climate weighs heavily on many, AND I am so proud of you for making it until today.

We often are moving in a state of worry, feeling hurried and just trying to last another day.

Some of those worries may include the final study session before a final, those precious minutes before submitting a paper due at 11:59 pm, or feeling like you haven't connected with others due to being overworked or overstimulated.

If you didn't know, May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, so I invite you to allow meditation to guide you this month.

This can be done in your favorite place in the world, a special room/place that holds warm memories or wherever you have access to.

You have SO MANY OPTIONS and you choose what works for you based on your comfort level and/or your ability.

Some suggestions that people can engage in are:

• Sitting outside in the sun

• Chatting with a loved one in a location that soothes your soul

• Blowing bubbles

• Make a gratitude list

• Leisurely sit in the car alone (with silence, music, or chatting with a loved one)

• Participate in Garden State Equality’s Community Co-Regulation Virtual sessions

• Write affirmations on post-its to place around your place

And so many more.

With every suggestion, my ask is that you are FULLY Engaged and Present in whatever you choose to do.

You deserve care, kindness, compassion, and rest.

Meditation is a way to calm your min,d which may lead to a state of calm and mental clarity.

After Winter, Spring blooms.

This May, please lean into meditation in a form that works for you.

You are welcome to incorporate it however often you would like into your life so I encourage you to AT LEAST try a form of meditation once after reading this.

As always, I am so proud of you for making it to this day.

Whatever you are working towards (a degree, a new job, new relationships, etc.) , I wish lots of luck and send you magical vibes for the rest of your May.

Click here to learn more about us

Subscribe now

Keep reading for a full list of the best events happening near you! And of course, legislative updates, words of affirmation, and more!

Welcome to Spectrum Spotlight, a monthly newsletter offering by NextGen College Ambassadors, Garden State Equality’s latest advocacy program for young adults aged 18-26. We share the latest LGBTQ+ events, jobs and internships, and other ways to build community throughout the Garden State.

Nextgen Updates!

Things are moving with NextGen! We are forming our Executive Board as we speak! Shout-out to Nextgen members August, Bailey, and Hunter for their participation in our Lobby Day on March 17.

Our next IN-PERSON meeting at our headquarters in Asbury Park is April 26! Mark your calendars! We hope to see you there! Email Sawyer at sussner@gardenstateequality.org for more details!

Jobs & Internships Highlights:

→Youth Skills Trainer (part-time)

This hybrid role based in Long Branch serves youth with disabilities.

Apply here!

→Junior and Senior Summer Camp Counselor with Garden State Equality!

Want to join us this summer at camp? We have a few spots open for you to experience a leadership outdoor program like no other!

Apply now!

→Summer Environmental Canvasser (Full-time)

Is fundraising your thing? Help The Fund for the Public Interest raise money to protect our rivers and waterways!

Apply here!

Looking for more opportunities? Click here to see our complete list!

April Policy Updates

By Sawyer Sussner, Garden State Equality Fellow [extraordinaire]

• Two transgender men serving in the Air Force and based in New Jersey filed a lawsuit against Donald Trump’s ban on transgender members of the military. They claim that this ban violates the Fifth Amendment, and were told that in order to rejoin the military, they would need to “live and appear as women.” This lawsuit was filed a day before a judge temporarily halted this ban.

• Policy 5756 - Transgender Student Guidance for School Districts: This policy protects trans and nonbinary students from being forcibly outed to their parents if they change their gender identity at school. It was the source of recent debate at a recent Bridgewater-Raritan Regional Board of Education meeting discussing the policy after two parents proposed a motion to abolish the policy last month.

• On March 17, hundreds joined Garden State Equality and other organizations for Lobbying Day, where they advocated for LGBTQ+ rights and policies across the state. Advocates met with lawmakers, including New Jersey Senator Raj Mukherji and John Burzichell,i to show their support for protections of transgender and nonbinary students in schools and the rights of transgender adults alike.

Click here to see more updates on anti-LGBTQ bills in NJ & around the U.S

Check out these cool events happening this month!

→Drag Bingo Blitz! (21+)

Have fun with the Trans Equity Coalition while raising funds to support Trans community projects! A win-win!

Register here!

→Game Nights: Magic the Gathering Commander Games! (21+)

Come make friends at The Eclectic Chic Boutique’s game tables! Who doesn’t love Queer AND Neurodivergent friendly spaces?!

April 11, 2025, from 7 pm-8:30 pm in Montclair, NJ

Register here!

Equality At Work Symposium!

A day learning all things inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility in the workplace! Hear from professionals in the community who are changing the way we engage with our passions for the better!

Student tickets are $50. Nextgen members come for FREE! Reach out to Sawyer for more information on special Nextgen tickets: sussner@gardenstateequality.org

April 11, 2025, from 8 am- 5 pm at Bell Works

Buy your tickets now!

Looking for more events? Click here for more LGBTQ+ events happening near you!

⋆˚✿˖°Monthly Gems for Nextgen ⋆˚✿˖°

An uplifting affirmation from the magical Garden State Equality Project Manager, Hime.

Authentic April

Have you sprung into action this season? If so, that's wonderful.

If not, that's okay too.

I encourage you all to be sure to affirm yourself through your words, style and authenticity.

Below are some affirmations that you can say outloud or to yourself:

✨ My style is mine to decide.

✨ I am beautiful /handsome /gorgeous /fabulous.

✨ I deserve to be authentically me in every space.

✨ I am loved in all of my intersectional identities.

✨ My emotions are valid, and I am allowed to emote.

✨ I am doing enough and I am enough.

As we enjoy more sun and start to seek new things, you are blooming, and you get to determine if you are gonna choose to grow.

If you are in school, I am wishing you lots of love, grace, and please pace yourself.

It is a marathon, not a sprint, so please don't wear yourself out and take time for rest and self-care.

Click here to learn more about us

Subscribe now

In some cultures, Spring is actually when the new year begins. Take advantage of this energy and step into some action- in whatever way feels right to you! And for our Muslim community and observers, Ramadan Kareem! We hope this month brings you much peace, love, and clarity!

What are you most excited about in this season? Let us know in the comments below!

Keep reading for some cool happenings for March, legislative updates, and more!

Welcome to Spectrum Spotlight, a monthly newsletter offering by NextGen College Ambassadors, Garden State Equality’s latest advocacy program for young adults aged 18-26. We’ll be sharing the latest LGBTQ+ events, jobs and internships, and other ways to build community throughout the Garden State. We’re so excited for all that’s to come!

Before we get into it…

Have you heard of our Queer BIPOC Network?

Last year, Garden State Equality launched the Queer BIPOC Network (QBN), a professional safe statewide network for NJ’s Black, Indigenous, and QUEER People of Color.

Photo from "In Living Queer" Storytelling Event on February 21st in Newark.

Want to join the network? Click here to sign up!

Nextgen Updates!

Our next virtual meeting is on March 8th from 1:00- 2:00 pm! We’ll be talking about how you can get involved and how we can create a program that works for YOU! Email Sawyer at sussner@gardenstateequality.org for the meeting link!

Our next IN-PERSON meeting at our headquarters in Asbury Park is April 26! Mark your calendars! We hope to see you there! Email Sawyer at sussner@gardenstateequality.org for more details!

Jobs & Internships Highlights:

→Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate, (volunteer)

CSVAs serve at New Jersey’s 21 county-based sexual violence
programs, where they assist with crisis intervention, hotline calls,
and survivor advocacy. 

Apply here

→Intern with the New Jersey Division on Civil Rights

Looking for a summer internship? In this position you'll aide in research, community events, social media, and more. Apply by April 1st!

More info here

→People Intern (Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion) with TheRealReal

In a time when DEI initiatives are being erased, take advantage of this opportunity for the summer!

Looking for more opportunities? Click here to see our complete list!

March Policy Updates

By Sawyer Sussner, Garden State Equality Fellow [extraordinaire]

• Policy 5756: The New Jersey Superior Court has upheld the injunction preventing three Monmouth County school boards from implementing policies that would forcibly out transgender students. The court agreed that these policies violated the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination.

• Executive Order “Keeping Men Out of Womens’ Sports”: This executive order signed by Donald Trump suggests that transgender women and girls be prohibited from competing on the sports teams of their actual gender. The New Jersey governor has yet to make a statement, but this law directly violates the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination.

• Coalition of Attourneys General Statement on Protecting Access to Gender-Affirming Care: New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Slatkin joined fifteen other AGs across the country in releasing a statement concerning access to gender-affirming care. In it, he reaffirmed that gender-affirming care is life-saving medical treatment and that healthcare decisions should be made by “patients, families, and doctors, not by a politician trying to use his power to restrict your freedoms.”

Click here to see more updates on anti-LGBTQ bills in NJ & around the U.S

Check out these cool events happening this month!

→Trans & Nonbinary Socials!

A peer-to-peer support and community group for all transgender, non-binary, gender expansive, and questioning people.

More info here!

→QFest LGBTQ Film & Digital Media Festival

Join the opening reception and check out the screenings at this multi-day LGBTQ+ festival! AND the student tickets are only $10!

Buy tickets now!

The Equality Soiree is here! March 7! (21+)

“Join us for evening of glitz and glamor to celebrate how we're moving equality forward in New Jersey!”

This event is supporting:

• Newark LGBTQ Center

• African American Office of Gay Concerns

• Out Montclair

This event is 21+, and features Tito's Handmade Vodka and Saint Luna open bar.

Buy your tickets now!

Looking for more events? Click here for more LGBTQ+ events happening near you!

⋆˚✿˖°Monthly Gems for Nextgen ⋆˚✿˖°

An uplifting affirmation from the magical Garden State Equality Project Manager, Hime.

Marvel March

You are in motion toward a goal, a degree or living another day.

Every step you take towards these things is a success.

You being awake and alive to read this is a success.

You are also capable of striving for more if you so choose.

You may be looking to start or in the beginning, middle, or end of your journey, and with that comes new challenges. I want to tell you that I am proud of your progress.

Nowadays, people may tell you to not look back at your past but I think we should.

HEAR ME OUT

Progress happens because we started somewhere and we have moved along towards new goals, new degrees, or new days. It's hard to know how far you have come if you don't take the time to stop and marvel at the progress you have made.

I think the lens that you choose to look at the past matters in what you gain from the reflection.

As I said last month, You have made it through 100% of the things that you have faced and I am proud of you <3

I spoke of your past and progress in that sentiment and it was through the lens of all the steps you marched to make it to this day.

This month, I want you to marvel at the path that you marched to get where you are today.

Use the lens of marvel and amazement at your achievements and your growth because YOU are doing the work to survive and possibly thrive.

We are living through history right now so give yourself grace in what may not have been achieved because you are still here.

Please lean into community when needed because you are not alone.

Remember It's Marvel March and one of the marvels is you being here today to read this.

As a reminder, YOU MATTER <3, YOU are a MARVEL and I'm proud of you and your progress.

Click here to learn more about us

Subscribe now

What keeps you going? Let us know in the comments below!

Keep reading for some cool happenings for the rest of February, legislative updates, and more!

Welcome to Spectrum Spotlight, a monthly newsletter offering by NextGen College Ambassadors, Garden State Equality’s latest advocacy program for young adults aged 18-26. We’ll be sharing the latest LGBTQ+ events, jobs and internships, and other ways to build community throughout the Garden State. We’re so excited for all that’s to come!

Jobs & Internships Highlights:

→Environmental Campaigns Organizer (full-time)

Are you passionate about environemntal issues and want to do work to secure an equitable future for all? Apply for this full-time role with the New Jersey League of Conservation Voters!

Apply here!

→Volunteer/Intern with HiTops

HiTops provides "invaluable opportunities for students who are looking to develop skills and experience in a non-profit setting with a focus on youth development, sex education, professional development, LGBTQ+ identified youth, and public health."

More info here!

Looking for more opportunities? Click here to see our complete list!

Donald Trump’s Day One LGBTQ+ Executive Order Breakdown

By Sawyer Sussner, Garden State Equality Fellow [extraordinaire]

• “Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government”: This executive order determines that there are only two “sexes” and that gender is assigned at “conception.” However, note that this is only an advisory from the White House and not an actual law.

• Transgender Women in Prisons: This part of the executive order mandates that transgender women in women’s prisons be transferred to men’s prisons. However, Judge Royce C. Lamberth of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia blocked this order after three trans women sued.

• Gender Marker Changes: This part of the executive order prevents TGD+ people from changing their gender marker on any future legal documentation. It also froze any document changes that were currently in progress.

• Gender Affirming Care Ban: This part of the executive order bans gender-affirming health care to anyone under the age of 19. Consequences of this ban are currently underway but there are lawsuits in progress filed by transgender teens and their families against the order.

Click here to see more updates on anti-LGBTQ bills in NJ & around the U.S

Check out these cool events happening this month!

→Virtual Gender-Affirming Yoga

RSVP here!

→Preview of “Femenine”

RSVP here

→Project Real Asbury Park Calendar

More info here!

Never too early to RSVP for the Equality Soiree! (21+)

“Join us for evening of glitz and glamor to celebrate how we're moving equality forward in New Jersey!”

This event is supporting:

• Newark LGBTQ Center

• African American Office of Gay Concerns

• Out Montclair

This event is 21+, and features Tito's Handmade Vodka and Saint Luna open bar.

Buy your tickets now!

⋆˚✿˖°Monthly Gems for Nextgen ⋆˚✿˖°

An uplifting affirmation from the magical Garden State Equality Project Manager, Hime.

As the rap lyricist Kendrick Lamar says, “I deserve it all.”

Freedom February-

It's Black History Month so let's talk about Freedom.

Freedom is the power or right to speak, act, and change as one wants without restraint.

Historically, Black people suffered from the lack of freedom for centuries and still exercised the small freedoms allowed such as singing, meals with family, and storytelling.

NJ Black activists like Marsha P Johnson, Paul Robeson, Brenda Ray Moryck, and Peter Mott also leaned into some of the freedoms they had access to as well.

So many things are happening currently that are attempting to infringe on our freedoms.

It can be overwhelming but it doesn't mean we can't exercise our freedoms we still have access to.

• I can exercise my freedom to connect and be supported by my affirming community.

• I can exercise my freedom to dedicate time to resting when I need it.

• I can exercise my freedom to allow for joyous moments despite the chaos.

• I can exercise my freedom to find out my rights from experienced organizations like Garden State Equality.

• I can exercise my freedom to advocate for myself and other majorly underfunded and marginalized populations like the Freedom Riders did.

Please lean into the freedoms that you have access to right now.

Do what you have the capacity and energy to do.

Please also prioritize your well-being when stepping into advocacy spaces.

This month I challenge you to exercise some of the freedoms available to you.

You don't deserve to be consumed by so much angst without release.

We deserve it all <3

You have made it through 100% of the things that you have faced and I am proud of you <3

Click here to learn more about us

Subscribe now

It goes without saying that this month has been A LOT. With the new administration, we’ve seen devastating headlines every single day. Our communities are feeling fear and hopelessness. This is the time for us to ~~lock in~~ and remember that WE GOT US. This is the time to be with people who keep us safe, understand us, and fight for and with us.

Here at Garden State Equality we’re prepared to keep our DEI programs alive and thriving, while also finding new ways to meet this moment with knowledge and tools to keep us going. We are also reminding one another of what we all know but forget to do sometimes: self-care. I don’t just mean face masks and a Netflix binge (although those are my faves), I mean REST. With our busy brains tuned into our technology every day, creating moments of stillness and maybe some floor time can do wonders for us.

We’re excited you’re here with us and want you to remember you have a family with Garden State Equality <3 Keep reading for more updates!

Welcome to Spectrum Spotlight, a monthly newsletter offering by NextGen College Ambassadors, Garden State Equality’s latest advocacy program for young adults aged 18-26. We’ll be sharing the latest LGBTQ+ events, jobs and internships, and other ways to build community throughout the Garden State. We’re so excited for all that’s to come!

We’ve updated our job and internship list! Here are some cool ones:

→The Frederick Douglass Project for Justice Fellowship (remote)

Interested in criminal justice reform? This remote internship will give participants the opportunity to engage in public discourse and criminal justice reform seminars. This is a summer opportunity for 5-10 to 35 hours a week and applications close February 5. 

Apply here

→New Jersey Council for the Humanities (Camden, New Jersey)

One of New Jersey’s largest arts organizations is currently accepting applications for the Programs Assistant position on a full time basis located in Camden. The position is intended to be filled by March. Anyone interested in the arts is encouraged to apply!

Apply here

Looking for more opportunities? Click here to see our complete list!

LGBTQ+ Law & Policy Updates

By Sawyer Sussner, Garden State Equality Fellow [extraordinaire]

• Bill A775: The “Fairness in Women’s Sports Act,” would prevent trans women and girls from competing on teams aligning with their gender in the state of New Jersey. While introduced in January 2024, it is now pending technical review by legislative counsel.

• Bill A670: This bill would prevent any discussion of gender identity or sexual orientation in public classrooms for children pre-school age to fourth grade. While introduced last legislative session, it remains on the House floor this year.

• Bill A2720: This bill would limit the requirements for public schools to teach about diversity, equity, and inclusion for students in grades 9-12. This bill was introduced pending technical review by legislative counsel.

  

  Click here to see more updates on anti-LGBTQ bills in NJ & around the U.S

  ---

Never too early to RSVP for the Equality Soiree! (21+)

“Join us for evening of glitz and glamor to celebrate how we're moving equality forward in New Jersey!”

This event is supporting:

• Newark LGBTQ Center

• African American Office of Gay Concerns

• Out Montclair

This event is 21+, and features Tito's Handmade Vodka and Saint Luna open bar.

Buy your tickets now!

⋆˚✿˖°Monthly Gems for Nextgen ⋆˚✿˖°

An uplifting affirmation from the magical Garden State Equality Project Manager, Hime.

I want to congratulate you at this moment. Please join me in congratulating YOU!!!

Congrats on making it to this day.

You have made it through all the mistakes, the moments, magic and mayhem that was 2024.

You are on a journey of growth, whether that be through a new degree, new program, new job, new place, or new mindset. This year, please find and lean into the community for we are entering a new era through a new presidency. Honor your feelings and your body this year.

You deserve nourishment.

You deserve care.

You deserve effort.

Let your community hold you when you are weary for the way we make it through hard times is by supporting each other.

Please take a break and rest when you need to because you matter.

Please drink water and treat your body with the best care that you can.

Please know that you are loved, I am proud of you and I hope you have many moments of joy in 2025.

Click here to learn more about us

Subscribe now

Keep scrolling for our December round-up and learn how to get involved with us.

Check out these jobs and volunteer opportunities!

→Hyacinth - Housing Placement Specialist (West New York, New Jersey)

Want to help Hyacinth AIDS Foundation in breaking the stigma and promoting wellness for all? This Full-Time position is just for you!

Apply here

→Hudson Pride Center - Wellness Coordinator (Union City, New Jersey)

From welcoming visitors, scheduling wellness appointments, and assisting with administrative tasks, you'll never be bored with this Full-Time position at Hudson Pride Center!

Apply here

→International Refugee Commitee - Volunteer Youth Academic Tutor (Elizabeth, New Jersey)

Looking for a Part-Time opportnity? The IRC offers dozens of volunteer and internship opportunities that align with your schedule! 

Apply here!

Looking for more opportunities? Click here to see our other top picks!

LGBTQ+ Law & Policy Updates

• Policy 5756 - The Edison Township Board of Education voted to KEEP protections for LGBTQ+ students, especially transgender and nonbinary students, including a non-outing policy with teachers and allowing students to use the restroom which matches their gender identity

• Bill A3446 - The Freedom to Read Act, which protects libraries and library staff who display LGBTQ+ childrens’ books, has passed the senate in New Jersey, meaning the bill has passed both houses and advances.

• Bill A2720 - This New Jersey bill, which limits discussion of LGBTQ+ issues in the classroom, is currently advancing and is expected to be debated in the 2024-2025 legislative session.

  ---

You HAVE to attend these 3 LGBTQ+ events happening this month!

→Our 8th Annual Home for the Holidays!

RSVP here!

→”Qmmunity Hangout” at The Pride Center Of New Jersey in Highland Park

Come hang out with LGBTQ+ guys, gals, and non-binary pals at the Pride Center of NJ EVERY Tuesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
85 Raritan Ave #100, Highland Park, NJ 08904
(732) 846-2232

→”Holiday Dance Party” Benefitting Newark LGBT Community Center

⋆˚✿˖°Monthly Gems for Nextgen ⋆˚✿˖°

An uplifting affirmation from Garden State Equality Project Manager, Hime.

“I refuse to let hate diminish my spirit.”

This quote made me pause and brought me a change in my spirit. 
We are treading through rough waters right now but now is when we bond as a community. I hope that you know that you are doing what you can right now and that is enough. I believe in your power and magic so I hope you will as well. 

I invite you to say this outloud: 
I am within my control. I refuse to let my joy, my laughter, or my spirit be diminished by the culture and climate around me. I do what I can do right now and that is enough.

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