Research indicates that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgendered youth are more likely than their heterosexual counterparts to be rejected and/or physically abused by their families, to experience school failure, to abuse alcohol and other drugs, to run away from home, to be homeless, to enter the sex trade industry, to suffer mental health issues, and conservative estimates suggest that queer youth are up to three times more likely to attempt and complete suicide.

This research examined the experiences of growing up as a self-identified member of the queer community within the child protection system in Manitoba. Feminist research practices guided the collection of qualitative data through personal interviews. Data was analyzed utilizing Grounded Theory. The main objectives of this research were to gain a better understanding of the issues relating to queer youth in care in Manitoba through listening to their stories and compiling practice and policy recommendations grounded in experience. By giving a voice to queer youth in care I am hoping to validate their experiences. I am also adding to the very sparse knowledge base in this area so that practice and policy changes will be based on research that acknowledges queer youth reality. Continuing to ignore the specific and layered hardships these youth face within the child protection system jeopardizes their mental health and personal safety.

The reports of suicide rates among queer youth conservatively tripling the average for heterosexual youth highlight the urgent need for child welfare practice to become more responsive. It is hoped that this research will make an important contribution in one of the most challenging and neglected areas of social work policy and practice.