Washington State LGBTQ Commission Seeks Youth Advisors to Help Shape Public Policy

Washington State is offering 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 14–25 a rare chance to sit at the table and directly shape the policies that affect their lives, applications close March 31.

Washington State is offering 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 14–25 a rare chance to sit at the table and directly shape the policies that affect their lives, applications close March 31.

Newcastle, WA – The Washington State LGBTQ Commission is accepting applications for its Youth Council through March 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM. Youth ages 14–25 who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ are invited to apply for a meaningful opportunity to influence public policy and advocate for their community at the state level.

About the Commission

The Washington State LGBTQ Commission is an official state agency charged with educating lawmakers and the public on how public policy affects LGBTQ+ people and the intersectional communities they are part of, including incarcerated individuals, BIPOC communities, and people with disabilities. The commission works directly with legislators to ensure that the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ Washingtonians are reflected in the policies that govern their lives.

The Youth Council is how the commission brings young voices into that work.

What Youth Council Members Do

Youth advisors work alongside the commission and state legislators to advocate for policies that are responsive to and supportive of LGBTQ+ people across Washington. This is substantive civic participation, not a symbolic role. Youth Council members have a real seat at the table in shaping how Washington addresses the challenges facing LGBTQ+ communities today.

Who Should Apply

The commission is currently prioritizing candidates who fit one or more of these profiles:

  • Community-engaged youth, young people already involved in spaces like a school Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA) or a local non-profit
  • Student athletes and sports advocates, youth passionate about 2SLGBTQIA+ participation and inclusion in athletics
  • Creative problem-solvers, collaborative, adaptive thinkers who bring new perspectives to policy challenges

If you are a young LGBTQ+ Washingtonian who wants your experience to count for something at the state level, this is the opportunity.

How to Apply

  • Deadline: March 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM
  • Eligibility: 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 14–25
  • Note: Youth under the age of 18 require parent or guardian permission to participate
  • Apply or learn more: lgbtq.wa.gov

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