National Activist camp

what is activist camp?

GSA Activist Camp is a 5-day, overnight youth-led training for trans, queer, Two Spirit, and allied youth ready to become active leaders in the GSA youth movement. Through hands-on workshops and community building, you'll learn about power, oppression, and how to create real change in your school and community. 

Activist Camp has a 26-year legacy of empowering TQ2S+ youth activists to build power. What started in California in 2000 now serves young organizers nationwide.
Gender & Racial Justice Foundations

Develop a deep understanding of how racism, sexism, classism, and other oppressions connect to homophobia and transphobia. Learn core principles of gender justice and racial justice, and gain tools to challenge systems that marginalize trans and queer youth of color.

A Powerful Community

Build lasting friendships with TQ2S+ youth and GSA leaders from across the country. You'll leave camp connected to a network of young organizers who share your vision for justice and will support your work long after camp ends.

Campaign Creation Skills

Learn Organizing 101 and get hands-on experience designing campaigns that work. From identifying issues to developing strategies, you'll gain the knowledge and confidence to lead change on your school campus or in your community.

Tools for Liberation

Through popular education methods, explore power, oppression, and liberation. You'll learn practical organizing tools and leave ready to take action on issues like safe spaces, anti-discrimination policies, LGBTQ+ curriculum, and creating cultures of belonging.

Who Should Apply?

What’s a campaign?

Requirements:

  1. Youth ages 13-17 in the United States who will be continuing middle school, high school, or alternative learning during the 2026-2027 school year.

  2. Willingness to commit to leading a campaign* in your school or district that addresses the right of TQ2S young people to studenthood, the lifelong practice of learning

Priority given to rising sophomores and juniors (graduation years 2028 & 2029).

Black students, Indigenous students, and other students of color are STRONGLY encouraged to apply!

Campaigns are group efforts to make change happen in your community. They can focus on legislative and cultural issues and strategies.

Example issues that GSA youth leaders are currently working on include: 

Local community access 

Few or No Safe Spaces

No Gender-Neutral Facilities

Creating a culture of belonging 

Addressing Lack of Acceptance & Safety

Harassment and Discrimination Without Resolution

Lack of LGBTQ+ Representation

Absence of Visible Support from Staff

Socio-emotional learning

Outdated and Ineffective Tools, Training, and Curriculum

Real-world problem solving

Weak or Nonexistent Policies

Important

details

When: June 16-20, 2026 Northern California

Cost: FREE! Travel, lodging, and food are covered. We want this experience accessible to all youth, regardless of economic status.

Location: University campus in Northern California (exact location shared with accepted applicants)

Application Timeline: Accepted applicants notified the week of May 12th, 2026

Required Documents: Parents/guardians must sign and submit all required forms by May 30th, 2026

Expectations

Campers agree to:

  • Engage with learning objectives and keep an open mind

  • Treat others with respect

  • Strive to act in ways that are not harmful to others

  • Complete all required forms by the deadline

Questions?

Email: youthorganizing@gsanetwork.org

Ready to build power and create change? Apply now!

Optional Contribution: While this event is free, if you can contribute to this enriching experience, donations are welcome or contact development@gsanetwork.org about in-kind donations for campers.