Minor attraction is an attraction of an adult towards a child or a young teenager, or of a child or a teenager towards a much younger child. Typically, in order to be considered a MAP, the people you find attractive must be below 15 and younger than you by at least 5 years. Minor attraction is an orientation; it can be romantic, sexual, or present any different type of a feeling that the attracted person processes as something other than friendly or familial. Just like peer/adult attracted people, MAPs can be gay, straight, bi, or have another gender preference. The feelings MAPs experience are no more unhealthy, unnatural, or disordered than feelings of those attracted to adults.
Our Vision
A world where Minor Attracted Persons (MAPs) can live freely without being judged for their orientation and without obstacles from society, have their autonomy respected, have equal rights, and achieve their dreams.
Our Mission
Our organization strives to support, educate, and organize MAPs and allies during our common work towards our vision of a better world. We want to ensure that the transition is timely and doesn’t cost any more lives.
Our Goals
Raising mental health awareness. We bring attention to the rates of isolation, depression, and suicidality within the MAP community and promote creation of safe spaces for seeking support. We aim to help MAPs find suitable coping mechanisms and build a positive self-image.
Advocacy for inclusive policies. We believe that everything concerning minor attraction should happen with input and participation of MAPs. We actively engage with policymakers to promote science-driven and humane approaches to public policy. By advocating for inclusive policies, we work towards creating a legal framework that protects the rights and well-being of minor-attracted persons and recognizes them as an oppressed minority.
Educational initiatives. MEDAL is committed to educating the public about minor attraction, dismantling myths, and fostering a more informed and understanding society. Through educational initiatives, we aim to challenge stereotypes, reduce prejudice, and promote acceptance.
Community support. We hope to create a safe and confidential space for MAPs to access support, resources, and counseling services. MEDAL encourages the development of a supportive community where individuals can connect, share experiences, and seek guidance without fear of judgment.
Our Approach
MEDAL seeks to support and empower the most silenced and the least visible. We stand for women’s rights, LGBTQ rights, rights of ethnic and religious minorities. MAPs who exist at an intersection of other types of oppression deserve to be heard.
Join us in building a better future.
We invite you to join us in our mission to build a society that values equality, dignity, and liberation for all. We can create a world where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, can live a life free from public persecution and with the support they need to thrive. Together, let’s MAP a future of understanding, compassion, and mental well-being.