“Social media has opened up a whole new world for LGBTQ + youth. I didn’t have any of that growing up in the 80s and 90s.”
Libby Lane, Deputy Director of the Rural Assembly
ON THIS EPISODE
Cuba High School sophomore Amber Cannon shares their interview with Libby Lane. Libby is the Deputy Director of an organization called the Rural Assembly. In this role, Libby focuses on projects that support sustainable rural development and address the unique challenges facing rural communities. But even more importantly, Libby is a native of Rural Forgottonia originally from Rushville, Illinois which is located in Schuyler County. Libby also has a lot of insight about growing up LGBTQ in a small town.
Why this Conversation is Important
- According to research, “rural environments are the least supportive for LGBTQ community members. A survey of nearly 1300 LGBTQ+ youth nationwide found that homophobia & transphobia was more prevalent in rural settings than urban.”
- “Nearly half of LBTQ youth in rural areas & small towns said their community was somewhat or very unaccepting of LGBTQ people compared to just over a quarter of those in urban & suburban areas.”
- “Just 4% of rural LGBTQ youth said their community was very accepting.”
“The people I’ve met have been accepting, but not understanding.”
Amber Cannon, CHS sophomore
Essential Questions
- What are the responsibilities of Libby’s position with the Rural Assembly?
- What challenges face young people growing up LGBTQ in a small town (and how has this changed)?
- What advice does Libby have for students growing up LGBTQ?
Amber Cannon BIO
Amber is a sophomore at Cuba High School. Amber is involved with history club, Scholastic Bowl, and Drama Club. They enjoy writing, podcasting, and other creative endeavors. Along with Mom, Katy, Amber has volunteered for several years at the New Salem Historical Site in Petersburg, Illinois. After high school, Amber is thinking about becoming a writer and being able to sell a book at some point.
SOURCES
The Forgottonia Project 