"It Gets Better"-Helping LGBTQ Youth Stay Alive

We all have busy weeks, and I'm in the middle of a particularly insane one myself. Although we may all get busy, it's important that we not forget those in the closet, newly out of the closet, or questioning their sexual identity who could use support, whether you're a LGBT or a straight ally.

The "It Gets Better" campaign has been something on my radar for a while. It's an effort to reach out to struggling LGBTQ teens. I've watched several videos, and a few have been particularly tear-jerking. Listen to or read this NPR story about creator Dan Savage for more information on this movement.

From NPR:

"Last fall, several teens across the country committed suicide because they were gay or perceived to be gay. This shocking rash of suicides raised attention about a sobering fact: Gay teens are up to four times as likely to attempt suicide as straight teens, and 9 out of 10 LGBT teens have experienced some sort of harassment in their school, according to The Trevor Project, a suicide prevention hot line for LGBT youth. When advice columnist Dan Savage heard about the suicide crisis unfolding, he had an idea: If older gay people offered hope and encouragement to gay teens, the teens would realize that their lives were worth living."

Many celebrities have made videos. Here is a video from President Obama:

Watch this video to see creator Dan Savage talk about the project, and the brutal bullying that can haunt LGBTQ teenagers.

According to the It Gets Better website:

Many LGBT youth can't picture what their lives might be like as openly gay adults. They can't imagine a future for themselves. So let's show them what our lives are like, let's show them what the future may hold in store for them.

Here's another It Gets Better video:

And please, remember the next time you hear of someone bullying, it is a big deal. Please speak up, and act out on this issue. There is someone out there who could use an ally, and that ally could be you.

Again, here's the website! It's a great resource for everyone, and I suggest visiting.
http://www.itgetsbetter.org/

Here's their facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/itgetsbetterproject