Jefferson Fietek is an outspoken advocate for all students including LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender and Questioning) youth.  He is the Vice President and Program Director for the newly formed LGBTQ youth program Justin's Gift and has been working on a local, state and national level to ensure that schools are safer and more inclusive of LGBTQ students and their allies.  Fietek believes if we make it okay to "target" one group of kids we open the doors for other groups to be targeted.

Fietek's views about creating schools that are truly inclusive of all students has been featured extensively in local media as well as in the New York Times (click here to read the article), the national news magazine Mother Jones (click here to read the article) and in the CNN documentary entitled "Don't Teach, Don't Tell"

He was a featured speaker and presenter at the first ever Federal LGBT Youth Summit in Washington D.C (click here to read about the summit).  He also has was a presenter at the Safe Schools Coalition Round Table National Conference. 

When youth in the community said they needed more positive opportunities in their community, he founded/organized of the first ever Anoka LGBTQ Youth Pride which was held in August 2011

He has met with District 11's School Board and Superintendent to work toward the creation of better anti-bullying policies and classrooms that are more inclusive.  Fietek also continues to work closely with community members as they work with District 11 to create a proactive anti-bullying curriculum and training for all adults who work with students.

In 2011, Mr. Fietek raised nearly $7,000 through theatrical events and other out-reach to bring attention to LGBTQ youth who have lost their lives to suicide.  The money was donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.  

Jefferson is available to present or work with your organization and can be contacted via the "Contact" link on this site.