A Case of Shifting Focus Friction: Extension Directors and State 4-H Program Leaders’ Perspectives on 4-H LGBT Inclusivity

Contemporary Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ+) youth are identifying and communicating their identities earlier in childhood then generations before as a result of more awareness and more acceptance. A qualitative study of U.S. 4-H program leaders and Extension directors resulted in an emergent theme around serving LGBT youth. The administrators of 4-H, the largest youth serving organization in the country, recognize the presence and believe the organization to be inclusive. Challenges remain in ensuring youth experience inclusion at all levels of the organization and to manage political and societal pressures resulting from shifting focus friction.