Rainbow Youth Project reports decrease in crisis calls from Oklahoma following Ryan Walters' resignation

(From the Rainbow Youth Project) Rainbow Youth Project, a leading organization dedicated to supporting 2SLGBTQ+ youth across the United States, has noted a decrease in crisis calls from Oklahoma following Ryan Walters' announcement of resignation and departure from his role as Oklahoma's State Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Between March 1, 2024, and September 24, 2025, Rainbow Youth Project's national crisis hotline received an average of 1,431 calls per month from 2SLGBTQ+ youth seeking help and support. However, in the past thirty days since Walters' resignation announcement, the number of calls has dropped to 914, marking a noticeable decline.

Ryan Walters was identified by 64% of Oklahoma's callers as a primary source of distress prior to his resignation. With his departure from the public education sector, individuals across the state, including students, teachers, parents, and citizens, are expressing relief and gratitude.

In response to the needs of Oklahoma's 2SLGBTQ+ youth community, Rainbow Youth Project, headquartered in Indianapolis, established a local office in Oklahoma City in 2024. The organization provides free mental health counseling services to those in need and currently serves 512 youth in Oklahoma alone.

"Following Ryan Walters' resignation, we have noticed a substantial decrease in crisis calls from Oklahoma. The relief expressed by callers is palpable, and we are grateful for the positive impact his departure has had on the mental well-being of our community," said Lance Preston, Executive Director of Rainbow Youth Project.

On a national scale, Rainbow Youth Project fields over 10,000 calls per month and has delivered life-saving mental health services to more than 12,000 2SLGBTQ+ youth aged 13-19 in all 50 states and U.S. territories.

The Rainbow Youth Project remains committed to providing crucial support and resources to 2SLGBTQ+ youth, ensuring their safety, well-being, and empowerment nationwide.

Rainbow Youth Project is a national organization dedicated to supporting and empowering 2SLGBTQ+ youth through crisis intervention, mental health counseling, and advocacy efforts. With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, the organization strives to create a safe and supportive environment for young individuals facing challenges related to their sexual orientation and gender identity. Our crisis center is based in Indianapolis, Indiana, and we operate an outreach program office and a youth peer support drop-in center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

The Gayly. 10/28/2025 @ 10:55 a.m. CST.