Home is where, you may have been born there, but you may not get to stay.

The Bitter Southerner has an encouraging report on efforts to catch LGBT kids whose families toss them over the side. It's something we do a lot of, never mind what we say:

Southerners believe in family. At least, that’s what we tell each other. 

For hundreds of years, Southern communities have been shaped by traditions that bring people together. A rich history of storytelling has allowed Southerners to explore their past, pass along values to younger generations, and bring change to their communities. Southern identity is also shaped by a fierce loyalty to the land. For generations, the South and its people have also shown perseverance through resistance.  

At their core, Southerners are defined by a fierce loyalty to family. This bond is unwavering and — supposedly — unconditional. But time and again, sexual and gender identity tear Southern families apart. 

Thousands of young people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer are kicked out of the house every year by their families. LGBTQ youth make up an estimated 40 percent of the total homeless youth population.The consequences of family rejection and discrimination are often deadly...