With Upcoming Project Caerus Protest, Gen Z Gathers in Solidarity to Protect Queer Rights

Spreading like wildfire across social media, Gen Z is standing up in solidarity to voice concerns regarding anti-LGBTQ laws that are being passed nationwide. One such organization that is mobilizing to raise awareness and protest anti-LGBTQ legislation is Project Caerus, a Florida-based, student run establishment. With this, the students behind Project Caerus seek to change the way that Floridians and Americans view the LGBTQ community through peaceful, organized protests, and walkouts.

At the time of the publication of this article, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is reporting 430 anti-LGBTQ bills proposed across more than 40 states. Many of these bills will block access to gender-affirming care and free speech and expression, while others will limit or ban participation in school activities or sports for queer and trans people. Other bills will prohibit transgender access to public bathrooms and locker rooms. Accurate IDs are also under attack, which will prevent gender-affirming personal record changes.

It is a grim time for those in the LGBTQ community, but in the face of these earnest challenges, many of the younger generations are stepping forward. Our youth are fearlessly taking to the streets with organized walkouts, protests, and petitions. Utilizing the power of social media, organizations like Project Caerus have partnered with Queer Youth Assemble, Tampa Teens Against Censorship, Equality Florida, and Queer Folk of Florence to mobilize marches, walkouts, and protests nationwide.

Project Caerus is named for the Greek God of hope and opportunities and was founded by a high school student who is passionate about creating safe spaces for LGBTQ students and youth. They seek to bridge the gap between the generational divide both inside and outside of the LGBTQ community.

“We want to make an impact on Florida’s views about LGBTQ+ topics. We want to see an America that doesn’t discriminate against LGBTQ+ people, but a country that gives opportunities and liberty to all,” reads the Project Caerus mission statement.

While the Florida planned protest and walkout is scheduled for March 31 from 2-3:30 p.m. Eastern time, students across the country plan to participate at a local level on March 31. This initiative has spurred others across the country like the March for Queer and Trans Youth Autonomy that happened in Denver recently. This outpouring of support is spilling over into the media and creating a palpable ripple amongst the LGBTQ community. Anyone interested in getting involved can do so on the Project Caerus website, which also offers more information on the Hope for Florida protest.

Featured image credit Project Caerus