Raven's Mom

01/21/2025

01/21/2025

We WON'T be distracted from our mission to uplift, empower, and connect LGBTQ+ youth.

We see you, your identity is still valid (just like you know it is on the inside), and we're still here for you, no matter who's in office.

Together, .

01/21/2025

When the new administration signs executive order after executive order restricting trans and LGBTQ+ rights, our very existence becomes resistance.

We KNOW that q***r and trans people have and will always exist. We KNOW that s*x and gender are not binary. We KNOW that no law has ever—or will ever—have the power to eradicate our love and our lives. And we KNOW that our love is louder.

Our love is courageous, and we are united in radical defiance. In the words of Black trans icon and activist, Miss Major: “I don’t need their permission to exist; I exist in spite of them.” 🔥

01/21/2025

While today may feel dark a small reminder that over 75 million people didn't vote against you.

01/15/2025

Don’t miss out! Stay informed!

Join us for the January 18th Amplify North Dakota event! We’ll explore critical bills being heard at the state legislature. Things move fast at the Capitol, but Amplify ND is your go-to source for up-to-date information and insider intel on what’s happening. From policies affecting working families and public education to attacks on equality and human rights, hear from organizations on the frontlines working to protect and defend our communities.

Registration is required → bit.ly/amplifynd

01/15/2025

Typically towards the beginning of the month I release a newsletter that does a few things. It highlights big opportunities across the state and multiple issues, a focus on one important event, anything I've been up to, two key stories across politics/education/community, and highlights 3 orgs doing important work to know about!

It is one of my key resources for desiloing and getting people to think about the work across this state. We need to look out for each other and informed each other! You can find this on the news section of my website!

01/15/2025

The comment section of this post 😍 All the love and support.

Some great take a ways for parents struggling to navigate current events!

-find your support people, providers
-keep an open dialogue going with your kids

01/15/2025

Great opportunity!!!

We extended the deadline and hope to have more application.

01/13/2025

As the legislative session begins to show its ugly head again, I'm reminded about how hard it can be to read these bills and the stories behind them. "Secondary Trauma" or "Compassion Fatigue" is a real thing and you're not alone if you're already starting to feel it! The attached article references Secondary Trauma/Compassion Fatigue for professionals and caregivers.

As an ally and a parent (caregivers!), it is really hard to see the fresh waves of vitriol and hate, disguised as good intentions and "love." Repeated exposure to "heart-wrenching or disturbing stories" or "seeing people in physical or emotional distress" are what lead us to Compassion Fatigue.

Recognizing that this process is HARD and we have our own thoughts and feelings on the issues is helpful. Giving ourselves grace and saving space for others during emotionally charged times can help when we're frustrated. There are some things we can do to help too:

- Spend time relaxing alone or with family and friends
- Taking time to decompress before going home or being around friends and family
- Leaving work at work, including your computer
- Getting enough rest
- Making sure you’re eating enough and drinking plenty of water
- Talking about your secondary trauma with someone

As parents, it can be really difficult to know how to support our kids when they're scared. That worry can add to Compassion Fatigue. This is the time to have conversations with your kids and LISTEN. Be a safe place for them to vent to. Listening and acknowledging that what they're hearing, seeing, and experiencing, even if you don't understand their point of view, is very validating for them. We all know that being heard is one of the best ways to be supported.

What do you plan on doing to help combat your Compassion Fatigue?

Professionals who hear about other people's firsthand trauma can develop secondary trauma. Here's how and why.

01/12/2025

How can you be supportive and affirming when a loved one comes out?
Check out "Our Children", a must-read and practical guide for anyone looking to learn more about supporting LGBTQ+ loved ones at pflag.org/OurChildren 📖🌈

01/12/2025

Happy New Year!

I want to start by thanking you all for your continued love and support. 2024 was a really hard year for me personally, and I appreciate the grace and patience I have received from family, friends, and my community.

I wish I could say I have big plans for 2025, but truthfully, I don't. I've been on a major mental health journey these past few months and my goal is to continue for 2025. Moving from existing to living!

My goal for Raven's Mom is to move from existing to actively supporting again. The mission is still the same. LGBTQ+ Su***de Prevention via Parent Support!

Hugs to all, and again, thank you!
Happy New Year,
Asheley LeFors (Raven's Mom)

12/25/2024

Happy Holidays!

12/25/2024

12/25/2024

If your new years resolution is to be more involved, get an early start on that by signing up to be a volunteer! You can easily find this on our website under our safe harbor tab!

11/28/2024

I hope everyone is able to find something good today ❤️ Thank you for being here!

11/28/2024

You're not a grinch, you're just grieving.

11/28/2024

Holidays can be tough for our LGBTQ+ friends and loved ones. We've got some tips and resources on how to be a helpful ally during the holidays. 🫶🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️
Head over to our website to learn more! https://pflagnation.al/48dN548