The Commission and the Safe Schools Program extend a heartfelt invitation to youth to join us in celebrating the achievements and progress made for and by LGBTQ+ youth at the annual GAYLA on Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 6:00pm-10:00pm at the Seaport Hotel Boston. This offers an excellent opportunity for youth to network with advocates for LGBTQ+ rights across diverse professional fields and to share space with other youth from across the commonwealth passionate about uplifting youth voice and leadership.

We kindly request that you nominate a youth for the opportunity to attend the GAYLA. To ensure that youth feel comfortable and confident at the event, and to remove potential wardrobe barriers for nominated individuals, each youth will receive a wardrobe stipend to help find suitable attire and dinner will be provided the day of the event. This year's theme is "Pearl Avantganza: Sculpted in Revolution" (Inspo picture). 

Youth attending the GAYLA are not expected to fulfill any obligations. Their only task is to arrive as their authentic selves and simply enjoy the night!

We strongly encourage nominations for youth who are Black, Indigenous, or People of Color, as well as those who identify as feminine, and/or as Trans/Non-Binary/Gender Expansive, Immigrants, and Disabled youth, to ensure a diverse representation of youth at the event and widen the scope of opportunities for all youth.

Things to keep in mind about the event:

1. This is a public fundraising event that is open to all ages.
2. Youth will all be seated together during the dinner.
3. Students will have to provide your own transportation to and from the event location.
4. This year’s GAYLA theme is "Pearl Avantganza: Sculpted in Revolution" - Inspo pictures for wardrobe
5. MA Commission on LGBTQ Youth will provide youth a wardrobe stipend in the form of a visa e-gift card of $250 that will be aimed to be distributed within a week of youth confirming their attendance.
   1. We understand that the wardrobe stipend may not fully cover a student needs. While we will reach out to our networks to facilitate finding clothing options for the youth, please note that we cannot guarantee availability in student's size or preferred colors/style.
6. Click here for more detailed logistical information.

For more information on the participation of youth in GAYLA, please email Youth Program Coordinator, Gabriel Rivas Orellana at LGBTQStudentLeadership@mass.gov