Out Now

The only queer youth organization in Springfield MA, Out Now provides a safe space for queer youth & allies to learn about themselves, develop lasting friendships and leadership skills, explore the history of the LGBTQ+ movement, and so much more.

Out Now logo

Learn more about Springfield Out Now

Queer youth throughout the United States lack political power and opportunities. To create space for youth to build power, we use to a youth development model where youth are in leadership of the planning and programming of the organization. Intergenerational relationships coexist and are valued, though our primary focus is on developing an organization that respects and encourages youth to be critical thinkers and leaders sharing a commitment for justice for all.

Out Now 2022 Student Testimony

Adam

Adam

It made me feel comfortable enough to be who I truly am in that classroom. Read Adam’s Statement

Drew

Drew

A human is a human no matter who you are. Read Drew’s Statement

Ethan

Ethan

When teachers create a positive—emotionally safe classroom—I see that I learn best: this is the optimal learning environment for students. Visit Ethan’s Landing Page

Theresa

Theresa

When teachers create a positive—emotionally safe classroom—I see that I learn best: this is the optimal learning environment for students. Read Theresa’s Statement

Out Now

Schools should be safe spaces where LGBTQ+ students won’t be judged and are provided with equal opportunity

Throughout Winter 2021, young people from Out Now, a queer youth organization in Springfield, MA, worked to develop statements on what they need in order to do well in school. They made audio and video recordings of their testimony and are planning activities to share their perspectives with other youth and with adult decision makers.

Student Voices - Out Not

Out Now 2021 Student Testimony

Briar

Briar

They did not focus on me as an individual; I felt more like they herded us like cattle. Read Briar’s Statement

Ethan

Ethan

Teachers play a very important role in how we feel as students. Read Ethan’s Statement

Kellin

Kellin

Trans kids shouldn’t be scared to go to school, and they shouldn’t have to be put under more stress feeling like they need to educate their peers. Read Kellin’s Statement

Lonelypilot

Lonelypilot

I would like to talk about the importance of creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ youth at school. Read Lonelypilot’s Statement

Out Now Mural, Stonewall Tavern, Springfield, MA

Springfield Out Now Mural

Painted by Mimi Ditkoff. Designed in collaboration with the youth from Out Now. A video by Focus Springfield Community TV.

Inspiration for the mural came from a Students Speak project where Out Now students shared their educational experiences and what they need to be successful in school.

It is important for LBGTQ youth’s stories to be shared and help them to be seen and heard. They hope to make a change in what is going on in the public school system.

The mural is a comparision between experiences in school now and what it might look like in the future.

Made possible by Fresh Paint Springfield, Common Wealth Murals and Springfield Residents

The Making of the Out Now Mural

The mural was truly a community effort. We thank everyone for their support. This video slide show features Springfield residents and artists who participated in the making of the mural in June of 2021.