Supporting LGBTQ+ TikTok Trailblazers

We are proud to support and showcase the new wave of LGBTQ+ TikTok Trailblazers who are using their platforms to share their authentic stories and inspire others. One of these incredible creators is Jere Chang (@mschanggifted), an elementary school teacher in Atlanta. Growing up in a small town in Georgia, Jere developed a passion for educating others about the LGBTQ+ community. On TikTok, she shares her life with her wife and two sons, aiming to show the value of her loving and fun-loving family. Jere's experiences have shaped her into a more empathetic person, and she has found support from the TikTok community during challenging times.

Pride, to Jere, means celebrating her true self and feeling love for herself and others in the LGBTQ+ community. It is a sanctuary where she can exist without feeling different. Her identity as a gay person in a conservative town has given her a deep understanding of the hardships faced by many. It has also fueled her desire to educate others and be the openly gay teacher she never had.

Jere celebrates and supports the LGBTQ+ community by creating a classroom environment that celebrates diversity and provides a safe space for all students to be themselves. As an openly gay teacher, she offers guidance and support to those who turn to her.

The TikTok community has been a source of inspiration and support for Jere, especially during the difficult year of 2020. She felt a sense of belonging and witnessed real people sharing their lives. This motivated her to create content that spreads positivity, focusing on her teaching and her life as part of a two-mom family.

Jere's advice to the next generation of the LGBTQ+ community is to love themselves before worrying about others' perceptions. Finding a community that accepts and supports them is crucial.

To be allies to the LGBTQ+ community, Jere suggests honoring and supporting them even when they are not present. Taking a stance against homophobic and transphobic actions is important. Giving the community a voice, listening to their experiences, and voting in a way that values their existence are powerful ways to show support.

Jere also recommends following and watching other LGBTQ+ TikTok creators such as @therainbowteacher, @mrwilliamsprek, @classroomyogi, @thenewmixx, and @sy.the.gender.rebel. These creators bring joy, break gender norms, and educate about LGBTQ+ issues.