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Young people often are told what they cannot do legally, but seldom know what their rights are under the law. A new website launched by Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders aims to empower LGBTQ youth so they can advocate on their own behalves. (AP file photo)

BOSTON (AP) — Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders has set up a new website to provide helpful information to young people in New England about their legal rights in school, sports, work and the juvenile justice system.

The website is an educational tool for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and HIV-positive youth. It is also meant to be helpful for parents, teachers, school administrators and youth workers.

“Legal information can be complicated and intimidating no matter what your age,” said Vickie Henry, senior staff attorney at GLAD, and director of GLAD’s Youth Initiative. “Our goal is to make this information approachable and useable for both young people and the adults who can advocate with them.”

The site provides links to local youth programs and services in each New England state.

A GLAD representative said the information on the website is not legal advice, but is meant to give youth and their supporters enough information about the laws in their states to advocate for themselves.

Visitors to the website can contact GLAD Answers, a legal information service, with by phone (800-455-GLAD), live chat on the site or via email.