Alternative rock band Panic! at the Disco is teaming up with the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) to support our LGBTQIA youth!
P!ATD frontman Brendon Urie is personally donating $1 million to GLSEN through his foundation, Highest Hopes, to "provide resources, training, and support to students creating LGBTQ clubs in their K-12 schools." Their donation website points out that "LGBTQ youth attending schools with a GSA are less likely to hear anti-LGBTQ remarks, less likely to feel unsafe, less likely to be victimized, and are more likely to report staff intervention when bullying or harassment occurs."
“Launching the Highest Hopes Foundation with GLSEN as our first cause feels natural to the DNA of P!ATD," the bisexual singer said in a statement. "I am beyond excited to see what we can do together. Some of the most inspiring leaders out there right now have come from GSAs. Working firsthand with GLSEN, student leaders everywhere, and all my fans, I want to make sure that every one of our future leaders out there has the support they need to form their own GSA and begin their work to make a better world.”
Urie went on, “For years my fans have inspired me with their determination and creativity as they have created a safe and inclusive community. I felt the time had come for me to join them boldly, to bring that energy and power to bear on the huge challenges facing our whole society.”
Panic! at the Disco will also donate another $1 to the Highest Hopes Foundation for every ticket purchased of their North American Pray for the Wicked tour, with special guests Hayley Kiyoko and ARIZONA.