join us for Youth action Month (YAM) 2024!

From zines, storytelling, art as resistance, community organizing, and social media campaigns—every action you take is a step toward building the Oklahoma we deserve.

Register for this year’s events below!

We’ve cataloged resources, videos, and tips to assist 2SLGBTQ+ young people in finding and using their voice and their power. These modules and activities will provide you with the tools you need to enact change in YOUR community. YAM is all about celebrating the work young Oklahomans have done and will do in the future. With so much legislation that seeks to harm and erase 2SLGBTQ+ students, YAM is your reminder that you belong in Oklahoma. 

WHAT IS YAM?


This year, we are asking you to pledge to help make Oklahoma a more equitable place for ALL Oklahomans. We want to see what you are doing in your own communities to make this a state where 2SLGBTQ+ youth can thrive. By pledging to join us for YAM 2023, you are committing to be a part of the solution. Let’s show the legislature that queer and trans youth are the future of Oklahoma!

take the pledge

Activity Modules

  • a colorful collage with polaroids of 2SLGBTQ+ people and the text "YAM 2022: telling your story, your way"

    Module 1: Telling Your Story, Your Way

    Knowing how to tell your story in a way that is direct, poignant, and impactful takes time and practice. Whether you want to speak to a legislator, write a letter for a cause, or give a speech to a crowd, here are some skills to help you build a strong platform.

  • a colorful collage with cut-out letters spelling the text "YAM 2022: comms for the cause"

    Activity Module 2: comms for the cause

    Now that you have a story to tell, an issue to raise, or an action to organize, you’ll need to find ways to communicate your goals to the community. This module is all about the different ways you can raise awareness and increase engagement towards the change you want to see in the world.

  • a colorful, paint-splattered collage featuring a Black protester with their fist raised, with spray paint stenciled letters spelling the text "YAM 2022: Art As Resistance"

    Activity Module 3: Art As Resistance

    There are so many ways to take action for change in your community. Storytelling, direct action, and mutual aid are all ways to build movements outside of legislative advocacy; but art is one of the most enduring protests we have at our disposal.

We have several events throughout the month, as well as an opportunity in the coming months to showcase the art you make for YAM 2024! YAM Resources are open to all ages, but events are open to youth and young adults up to age 24.

yam art nights

SCHEDULE:

  • Oklahoma Contemporary Teen Space (11 NW 11th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73103)

    • February 15th: 5-7 pm

  • Oklahoma Contemporary Teen Space (11 NW 11th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73103)

    • February 29th: 5-7 pm

  • OSU Canterbury Center (519 W University Ave Stillwater, OK 74074)

    • February 16th: 5-7 pm

Freedom Oklahoma would love the opportunity to showcase the amazing things you have created!

During YAM and throughout the year, we like to show off young Oklahomans’ masterpieces! 

Submit work to be shared with our communities to taylor@freedomoklahoma.org. You must submit the release form below signed by a guardian if under 18, and by yourself if 18 or over.

tag us online when sharing your projects!

Facebook: @freedomoklahoma.org
Instagram: @freedomoklahoma
Twitter: @FreedomOkla