Growing Up Gay in Rural America: Creating a GSA in Kansas

[@blaithink6093]

You know I haven’t looked at Tyler Oakley’s channel in a while and I came back for a look and I’m actually astonished. Although there’s a bit less views I think what Tyler is doing here and what he’s making, there’s nothing really else like this on KZbin and Tyler what you’re doing here is really special. I know that this has made a difference in my life and I expect many others and for that thank you xx

[@oliviamckeon3957]

there's less views but the content is so much better and much more important❤️

[@arishachanna2221]

Tyler is so open and proud to speak out i love it!

[@keetonaldenmusic]

Ty, I just love you. I had tears in my eyes multiple times throughout this video because I was so inspired. Growing up, I could only dream that I would feel safe being who I was. You are making that dream come true for younger generations and I admire you deeply for that

[@panic-nh1fw]

This video inspired me to start a GSA in my school 💛

[@madisonschmidt7304]

That's amazing! I'll be rooting for you!

[@panic-nh1fw]

castiel howell i used to go to that kind of a school too, but now I'm in a new one where i think it's gonna be easier to at least try

[@oneofthemany7322]

I helped to start a GSA at my school, even though there was only 2 months left. I think that it will definitely help with next year's GSA. Starting now will help you get footing to having a better future. Good luck!

[@maxslook5177]

Every video I become more and more proud of what you do to support our community 🌈 love you Tyler xxx

[@kc-qi1ge]

Max's Look xoxo* rip x

[@Sfrgsammie]

Aaron, Thank you for trying to stand up for the LGBTQ+ Community in your school. You’re an inspiration. School is supposed to be safe for EVERYONE. We had people in my school who weren’t so nice to people. Thanks to GSA Junior year, we were able to create a safe environment where people could be themselves and meet others who were also afraid. Tyler, Thank you so much for what you do. You’re both amazing and it warms my heart.

[@calebhahn9355]

This video made me cry, The blatant stepping around the problem that the principle did... If you cant love every kid no matter what you shouldn’t be in a position to teach them

[@lemoniezxc]

My favourite episode by far in the series; thank you for going down yourself and seeing through the first steps that the students take to effect change

[@travismounts6280]

This is my son, and I'm still so proud of all the work he put into trying to start a GSA at his school, as well as everything he did to advocate for and projects LGBTQ+ kids at his schools, especially those who were not in a position to be their true selves openly yet. He has continued to be an advocate for other queer youth, and I love him and the young man he has grown to be. To all the LGBTQ+ kids who are still searching for their safe spaces, keep the faith - you will find your place, and you will find love and acceptance. This dad is here for you, and many others are will to be there for you if you need us.

[@reecekeller5268]

Keep up the good work!! It’s an amazing video. Thank you for coming out to cheney and being so inspirational. It was an honor to meet you here in my hometown of cheney!

[@ddaisyg]

we stan a fucking queen, this made me love him so much more💕😭

[@cloudy4672]

We stand with you Aaron!

[@JordanWalshyt]

You help and inspire so many lgbtq+ individuals like myself 💕 love you Tyler

[@OLDS98]

Great video. Taking a stand in a small town like that can make a difference. Powerful video and it made the people see and know and understand. People are not used to what they do not understand or willing to have an open mind about too.

[@mol1580]

I didn’t even know that a safe place was a thing, first thing I do after this video is looking into my school for a GSA Thx Tyler 💛

[@iceberglettuce1129]

I love this video. I'm in a similar situation to Aaron. My school won't allow me to start a GSA because they're worried about what parents/donors will think. It's really frustrating not being able to start this club, and I appreciate you taking the time to highlight this kind of issue.

[@re_animatedabby6791]

This is the best! Hope this can happen everywhere!!!

[@shesquiteagal72]

I’m so proud of Tyler for doing this series again. I love my queen!

[@maritzaalcazar6502]

this makes me emotional af

[@maxkerstetter5676]

I'm so thankful for you and your videos Tyler! Thank you for making my pride month brighter!!💜💜

[@estopesto2647]

That principal needs to acknowledge the blood on his hands by ignoring the problem.

[@Meleeman011]

well. i don't know about that, but I can confirm i got cut by a rusty razor he and the counselor made me use. I legit walked out and went to class as soon as he left. what do you mean by blood on his hands, he's a dick but he hasn't killed anyone as far as i know.

[@estopesto2647]

Meleeman non accepted LGBTQ+ youth have a 50% increase in attempting suicide then other youth. That's what I mean.

[@cahp6738]

No shit

[@tealrose3248]

That goes for every adult who has young people in their care and doesn't work to keep them safe.

[@Kimberwheat]

👍 keep up the fight guys 🌈💖

[@ahoysoph]

i am so glad of the awareness you have raised by doing this series as not many other "big" youtubers would do so, ily tyler

[@jacksmith441]

It makes me happy that even the elder generations are helping to push for change :)

[@kaitstanley5424]

🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍🌈 Everyone in the LGBTQ+ community deserves a safe space to go to.

[@Audrey-ge2uo]

My friends and I made a GSA at our own school and even though there weren't very many people in it and it was just kind of my friend group, it was so much fun and helpful. We just talked about what ever we wanted to, whether it be LGBTQ+ related or not. I think every school should have a GSA and be able to share in the experience

[@elliemuir879]

Tyler. Loved this video. Your chosen family is great. For the record you’re in my chosen family. ❤️🏳️‍🌈

[@elizabethrobey3389]

This video made me tear up so much. I know how hard it is to step up to try to create a change. I wanted to make it so that in my school boys and girls would actually have class together in gym (we don't) but I got so scared to step up and even after talking with an adult about it, I couldn't follow through. It just moves me so much to be able to see that you are working to change an entire town so that they can be more accepting and give kids a safe place where they don't. Tyler Oakley you are a very special person and I'm very glad we have someone like you who is willing to stand up and make a change when others can't. Keep being amazing, keep being you.

[@ellietheblackcat3731]

I don't have a GSA at my school, but now I feel extremely inspired to try to get it to have one!!! Thanks Tyler and Aaron!!!

[@hulda428]

I still don’t get why schools wouldnt allow it? I mean if they want the students to be happy, learn and feel safe, they should be there for the kids and support them.

[@tealrose3248]

heppapoika 09 that's a big IF when it comes to a regressive homophobe with gay kids in his care. I mean you can tell by looking at that principal which way he votes.

[@chelseam1042]

oh my god, i have actual chills along my body. this was so empowering. i feel so inspired right now. this is what i want to do with my life. this is the sort of impact that i want to have in people's lives. as someone who has the privilege of just having a GSA in my school and other resources or people that i can talk to i feel that i need to appreciate that more. we take these things for granted and sometimes it takes something like this to realize that not everyone has it this way. i know me personally needs to appreciate what I have more. I am so thankful for this series tyler it has provided me with such a deep learning experience and honestly has made me see another light with my own life which I need to be knowledgeable of... thank you so much I absolutely love this series xx 💞

[@chelseam1042]

this was such a powerful video honestly

[@bronwynwalsh7671]

By far my favorite Chosen Family video 🌈 So touching, and so empowering to see change in the making

[@averyd.6132]

MY QUEEN!

[@jodiemiddleton6320]

Tyler you are truly golden, this is incredible, thank you so much for helping lgbt+ community❤️

[@AltairScuti777]

I live in Central America. I went to *a catholic nuns high school* and even they were more accepting than that principal 😧 I hope one day there'll be no need for a safe space. I hope one day, as long as you're not hurting anyone, you can just be yourself 💁

[@Cedalion]

Thank you for helping everyone here with your videos.

[@PrincessFantasyStar]

I regret not joining a GSA at the school I graduated from, but then again, I still have a long way to go to gain more knowledge about the community. I just attended my first Pride event on Saturday, and I had a blast. Not only did I enjoy the event, but I also felt like it was my first step to supporting a cause that is fighting SO hard to this day. I will continue to learn all I can and hopefully become a better ally and support those who don't have anyone to look up to. Thank you for this video.

[@user-nk6zl6bj3d]

This video seriously teared me up, your committence, and your willing to create a safe place for these young people is beautiful to see. Please guys, be all like Tyler one day♡

[@ksfishgirl]

Thanks for telling this story, Tyler! It was so great to welcome you to our town.

[@minorikushieda7998]

I really love how open and propositive you are! Keep spreading so much love, Tyler!!!

[@MrHutchMO]

Tyler, living in rural Missouri a border state to Kansas, I was so happy you visited the rural Midwest. Your comment all gay people don't live in LA or New York is so true! My husband and I of almost 19 years love our rural life, however also love going to Kansas City, MO. People have accepted us in our community and if they don't like us we don't care. Many in rural areas struggle with coming out and many live double lives. You being the catalyst for the town hall meeting in Cheney( loved that it was in the red shed!), meeting with principal and the kids meeting, this has helped open others eyes in that community and has helped a lot of people!

[@blackcat5263]

Our community is the strongest around! We will always keep fighting!

[@blairelliott3311]

You look so great in this video Tyler. The fact that you’re trying to help Aaron is so kind.

[@alondraaguilera3214]

It really makes me upset that GSA is still not allowed at a high school near my own city. I support you guys and I hope Cheney High will be able to stand up and eventually make their official GSA

[@stellajobe565]

Tyler you are such an inspiration and I just wanted to say thank you. As a part of the LGBTQ+ community these videos mean a lot. All of your videos do. ❤ Edit: oh my god Tyler I'm crying you hearted my comment

[@you_wou1dnotbe1ievey0ureye2]

This is honestly amazing. I went to school in Kansas, about 2 hours away from where you shot this video. Thank you for bringing more attention to rural areas with lgbtq+ people.

[@alexiswiseman2462]

Thank you so much for this!!! I went to Cheney and graduated in 2014. While I was there the climate was so toxic to lgbtq+ people I couldn’t even dream of exploring my identity. (I literally had conversations with classmates who flat out told me gay people were horrible). In college I found my place and was able to finally come out as bi. I do what I can now to help others but I wish I would have done more back then. Also Shawny and Ann are the most amazing teachers! Aaron is paving the way for other students to continue the fight. Wherever you are just know I believe in you.

[@dontforget88888888]

so proud of you Tyler

[@lostboy1661]

You're doing amazing, Tyler! You too, Aaron 😍❤️🧡💛💚💙💜😍

[@vladorable7959]

honestly, watching something like this makes my heart melt and ache at the same time. first of all, Tyler, thank you for everything you do and for raising awareness of all these important topics! it's amazing to see how outgoing and dedicated you are, you are the true role model for me. (also you're fab) however, i can hardly relate as i am a bi guy from russia and it's needless to say that we're far far away from getting gsa's at school or anything like that, so that hurts. but luckily there's a plenty of online communities where you can contact other lgbtq+ people, so that makes our lifes a little bit easier when we share our experiences and support each other.

[@leg3755]

Kudos to Aaron for trying to get a GSA started at his school. My school doesn't have one, and I'm wayyyy to awkward to even attempt to start one, so props to him

[@reecehopke4167]

This made me cry so much!! ❤❤

[@kailinsparrow4734]

idk why I cried lol Starting the conversation is important and shouldn't be discouraged. thank you for offering so much

[@Emily-cr6qi]

This. Series. Is. So. Important. Literally every episode makes me cry. This episode got me real good because you can see how incredibly sincere and determined Aaron is. He just wants love and safety in his own school. DANG I cried nearly every time his mom talked. GSA is so crucial, especially in a school like that. As an ally, I'm also SO inspired by the other parents, friends, and other community members who want to make high school a safer and more kind place. This is just beautiful.

[@doradix97]

It's amazing that the principal won't see the problem that's under his nose!😤 But I'm glad that they were able to have their first meeting.🏳️‍🌈 And I love the pin❤️

[@jadaskyenicholss]

Andrés Dorado yes, it is really sad. What people may or may not realize is how much time Aaron, his mom and a few others of us have spent telling him that there are issues and we have provided him with multiple statistics from surveys at our school but he refuses to take action. I was in the first meeting with him to bring up the idea and it went very similarly as their interview in the video.

[@ruth5460]

Aaron is actually incredible, don't stop fighting for your GSA ❤❤

[@tinasae2668]

Every Single video of the chosen family series is just precious!! I'm so proud of you. You're helping so many people what is quite amazing!! You're such an special and unique role model!! I love you so much!!💕

[@SuperUkeChan]

Can I just say, I really love how much you matured over the years... I remember when I first started watching you and you were doing stuff like the chicken nuggets challenge and now this... I loved all of the videos of chosen family so far, both this season and the first one, it's just so inspiring to see so many amazing people coming together like this... It makes me so happy and proud 💖💖💖

[@audreyvalentine9182]

I tried to get a gsa in my school last year, no one listened, were gonna get one this year though! I’m forever proud of you and i love this series!💘💘🏳️‍🌈

[@DeejayCombs]

GSA is needed because ppl get bullied which is not okay!

[@CKcraigie]

Sending an email to the school and principal in support of a GSA. When we started a group at my school (8 years ago!) there was so much support I can't even imagine how frustrating this must be!

[@jessleon802]

Any video I watch from Tyler makes me cry. I love this video. The world needs to realize that it doesn’t matter who we like. The heart wants what it wants. What matters is our personality. Are they kind, funny, smart, or caring? Who we love doesn’t matter. We are all the same. Made from the same marterials. Watching this video inspired me to ask my school if we even have a safe place for queer kids. Tyler keep doing what you do. So many people watch this. We are inspired one way or another. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ This just proves that no matter how old you are. Anybody can make a difference.

[@rockylowenthal2472]

Thank you so much for doing this Tyler, you're changing the world to become a much, much better place

[@alecuario]

Aaron is so inspirational! The fact that he hasn’t stopped fighting for a GSA makes me look up to him cause he doesn’t give up! 👏🏽💛 Keep Fighting!

[@Saraanade]

If it wasnt for my GSA id have been so lost. I love that you're so open to talk about this

[@Midasmeatmuncher]

YOUR IN KANSAS OMG THATS WHERE I LIVE NO ONE I LOVE COMES HERE YOU COMING HERE MADE NE SO HAPPY

[@rachelcreel1163]

Gerard iero Right? I'm from Wichita and live really close to Cheney.

[@alliecary.]

Rachel Creel so am I!!!

[@alliecary.]

Gerard iero wtf hi u guys

[@Midasmeatmuncher]

Allie Cary haii😀

[@Midasmeatmuncher]

Rachel Creel same!!

[@tylerkihm8131]

This is the most amazing and underrated series I’ve seen on KZbin. You’re a light Tyler.

[@christathunder]

This is a huge problem all over Kansas! Thank you so much for inspiring one town, hopefully your actions start a domino effect. Maybe one that will even reach my school.

[@quinnnickerson7422]

AARONS FREAKIN RAINBOW CHOCOS ARE EVERYTHING!! also tyler, you’re the greatest human to exist, truly

[@melspire7170]

Just came out to my mom tonight...not a fully good conversation but it’s getting there...thinking about joining a gsa next year, my school just revamped the programme 2 years ago and now I feel safe enough to actively participate in the lgbtq+ Community. Thanks for the video today Tyler, I’m sad for chosen fam to end, but happy for all the good work you’re doing. You really make a difference.

[@Imjudgingjudy]

Tyler does such great things 😍 love him so much

[@kayleenewland1623]

Tyler- this brings tears to my eyes! THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO FOR OUR COMMUNITY!

[@tristasenez7529]

This year I created a GSA in my middle school and luckily my school was okay with it. Not only til now did I remember how unaccepting people can be, and it made me realize how grateful I am to have been able to create GSA for my middle school as well as teach it

[@lizzlocke3130]

Oh my gosh Tyler! You cut so deep, you make real things happen, even if they are small! I save the series so I can binge watch all of them but I had to see this one.

[@jadaskyenicholss]

So proud of my best friend for all he has accomplished 😄 I just know that Aaron will be very successful.

[@LauraS_1194]

Tyler you're awesome to show every side of "the chosen family" struggle... Go Aaron!❤

[@loobeeloou]

Well done to Aaron and all those people who turned up in support. Such a shame the principal can’t or won’t recognise the issues, but keep on fighting! I’m sure this will be very inspiring to all those in school (and indeed to the wider population). Well done for helping too, Tyler. So very proud of you ♥️

[@jadencasarezwattpad]

I tried to create a GSA in middle school, and I was met with the same reasoning for not having one "well, I wouldn't want to anger other parents or it might cause too much commotion, etc." But, the principle did say that she would think about it. But, its been so long I can't remember if we sat down to talk about the decision but GSA never happened.

[@EliBNYC]

Tyler, This was another great episode. I wish they had something like this when I was in High school back in the early 90s at my school. It would have helped me a lot. Looking forward to the next episode.

[@ryleeb6375]

I’m so happy your doing this. Thank you so much for being so inspiring. My school doesn’t have a GSA either, and you fighting for it is very helpful. It gives me hope.

[@DavidLeasure]

I'm so proud of my niece and her son! You all my me cry tears of frustration and pride. Keep going, Ty and Aaron -- the world needs you. Thank you, Ty, for bringing this story to light.

[@claravassent5149]

I'm so proud of this community 🌈💛 Thank you Tyler for everything you do to show us the LGBTQ+ with another point of view ✌❤

[@Rhonettala187]

Whyyyyyy are these videos not getting millions of views?! This is so important!

[@freddyvrd]

I cried!! this was soooooo cute! thank you for making this series, tyler!

[@savithaar2866]

Thankful for people like Aaron. This video is so inspiring 💛

[@nieknee]

Tyler you're such an amazing person, I'm so happy you're helping these wonderful people share their stories. It's so important for people to have a voice and this, along with all of the chosen family episodes, is such a beautiful video❤️

[@stephlincoln1917]

As someone who calls Kansas home myself, it hits me hard and makes me so happy to see a community in our own state willing to step forward and be game-changers for LGBTQ+ kids and the community, especially in a state where it can be difficult to do so. Thanks so much for sharing this story with us, Tyler!

[@Luzzyluz21]

It was so nice to see a story coming from a small town because I think a lot of people forget to recognize there are towns that are not as open minded as others and the fight still isn’t over and it’s just only beginning in some areas. Great job to those kids for using their voice!!

[@morganchampagne7153]

This is crazy perfect-at my school next year, I’ve decided I want to start a GSA, so this is crazy that this is the topic you’re covering today. Also, all my support towards Aaron! I really hope it works out for him and everyone else who wants to start their GSA. Edit: It worked💕💕💕💕🏳️‍🌈

[@morganchampagne7153]

zachparade thank you!!

[@aimeep8948]

I’m actually crying this is so good💗😭

[@isabell6964]

Honestly words can't describe how much respect I have for you right now. I love you and everything you do so much. Keep doing what you're doing Tyler ❤

[@slaterlee5235]

So thankful for this series. Proud of you Aaron! Tyler thank you for all of the work you do for the community. Love you!

[@AmbuhVee]

I'm using this as a video text for my 10th grade English students in our module on Citizen Youth. Thanks Tyler!

[@ahmedhussain1132]

Love you Tyler! ❤. Thank you for this. Thank you for what you are doing for the community. Thank you for being you! 😊❤

[@DulceHernandez15]

this is one of the most incredible ways i’ve seen an influencer use their platform. thank you, Tyler!

[@Jeff010395]

Tyler. Well done. Thank you! Please continue your support and mentor this group.

[@meliaotk]

hey tyler, i know sometimes things may get hard and even if you lack motivation i hope you know that many people still love you + support you and always will, including me. i love your videos and i'm truly grateful for them

[@jaxy73]

I know Aaron and when he told me about this video I was so happy for him. He's such an amazing person. Thank you for helping him!

[@cristinb5415]

Thank you so much for what you're doing Tyler! This hit close to home for me. I grew up in Liberty Missouri. About 3.5 hours from Cheney. Our high school thankfully had a GSA. But even with a GSA we had problems. The shirts for the GSA were banned by the school. They only said "Gay? Fine by me!" Yet they allowed other students to wear shirts that said "Straight? Only way fine by me". This was in 2010. It was a reminder to keep fighting for rights of equality. Just like this video!

[@amandalong509]

I LOVE this episode. It truly show the way it is in very country Communities where there is a very hard line drawn about what is believed to be right and wrong. I truly commend this young man and his family for their courage and conviction. I also am really thankful that you went and tried to help shed some light to this community. Great work!!!!!