Many of us have felt the sting of systemic prejudice, and understand the precarious position it places our underrepresented youths in. Our plea is not just another cry for equality, but a demand for tangible policy changes that uphold the health and dignity of youth incarcerated in the United States. To the concerned audience, due to overpolicing, bias, and systemic racism, too many LGBTQ+ and youth of color are channeled into juvenile detention facilities. Despite forming only 15% of the youth population, Black youth represent over 40% of those incarcerated; whereas LGBTQ+ youth, comprising only 5–7% of the youth demographic, account for nearly 20% of those in custody, with 85–90% of these being young people of color.

This disturbingly disproportionate representation unveils a deep-seated and pervasive problem that we cannot ignore - the urgent need for HIV prevention awareness and comprehensive sex education within detention centers. These children face intensified health risks and retain limited access to comprehensive health information, a causal loop we aim to break.

We demand that state and federal authorities mandate HIV prevention programs and comprehensive sex education for every juvenile detention center. Implement such policies that would enable these young, vulnerable individuals to make informed health decisions positively impacting their lives. Healthy youth are the cornerstone of a thriving society, and we must ensure that all young people, particularly those incarcerated, have access to vital information about their health and well-being.

It's high time we advocate for those silenced by systemic discrimination. Join us in urging the government to mandate HIV prevention and comprehensive sex education in all juvenile detention centers. Sign this petition to embolden our cause and ensure that equity is not just a privilege, but a right for all.