Belmont's Edmonds Named to Governor's LGBT Youth Commission

Belmont poet and activist Athena Edmonds joined more than three dozen new and returning members of the Massachusetts Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Youth as Gov. Deval Patrick swore in the group at a State House ceremony held Wednesday, Jan. 9.

“I am proud to join the members of the Massachusetts Commission on LGBT Youth to celebrate the progress we have made in improving conditions for LGBT youth and to look ahead at the work that needs to be done,” said Patrick. 

“We do what we do as a matter of conscience – all young people should have a chance to thrive. In that spirit, we will continue to work with the Commission to promote healthy, safe environments for all youth, provide health education and services to meet the needs of the LGBT population and continue to affirm the dignity of every human being.”

Edmonds is also on the board of directors of Greater Boston PFLAG; Parents, Family and Friends of Lesbians and Gays.

Consistent with the Commission’s previous policy recommendations, the Patrick-Murray administration has improved LGBT youth access to safe homes; expanded training and education programs for agency staff and providers that interact with LGBT youth; and recognized gender identity in the analysis of youth health and safety.