Hello John,
TL/DR As we commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King's legacy of justice and unity, the political divide surrounding the presidential inauguration highlights the critical work ahead. It Gets Better remains steadfast in its mission to support LGBTQ+ youth, empowering them to build a future of equality, community, and individual strength. Despite uncertainty about the political landscape, our stories of change and resilience underscore the enduring impact of our efforts. Together, we are creating a lasting legacy that inspires the next generation of changemakers.
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Today marks a stark intersection of American ideals. As we honor Dr. King's enduring vision of unity and justice, we're also witnessing a presidential inauguration born from division and hateful rhetoric that has often targeted the very communities we serve. This contrast isn't lost on me – nor, I imagine, on you.
It has me thinking deeply about legacy. Dr. King's impact still shapes our nation's conscience more than half a century later. And while the full impact of today's political transition remains to be written, I am focused on a different question: What legacy are we building together, right now, for LGBTQ+ youth?
It Gets Better has defined its legacy – that at some point in our future, all LGBTQ+ youth will be free to live equally, connect to their communities, and know their power as individuals. It is an aspirational goal that we already see taking root.
As a leader in the empowerment of LGBTQ+ youth for the last 14 years, It Gets Better is shaping the future by nurturing the potential leaders who will govern it, and their stories light our path forward:
Aaron, an It Gets Better Youth Voices ambassador, didn’t just vote for the first time this year—he galvanized first time voters throughout Los Angeles to stand up for queer rights.
David, a high school junior in Florida and It Gets Better grantee, is taking on the "Don’t Say Gay" state by creating LGBTQ+ training videos for GSA clubs and educators.
Allison, a Missouri teen, who came out IRL on our Twitch Chosen Family stream — then took that moment of bravery and came out to their family, who met them with open arms.
These stories are just a glimpse into the lives of the more than 800,000 remarkable young people who plug into It Gets Better programming every year.
Today, LGBTQ+ people are justifiably concerned about what to expect over the next four years and whether the freedoms we fought so hard for will be rolled back. We can’t ignore the fear that comes with the unknown. But even in the face of uncertainty, It Gets Better is ready to defend our progress and determined to expand it.
Political figures come and go. But the work of creating lasting change happens through sustained commitment – by showing up daily for young people who need us. We are building something that transcends election cycles – a legacy of support and empowerment with the ability to inspire tomorrow’s changemakers. This next generation will carry our movement forward, ensuring our fight for equality endures.
Stand with us as we continue this vital work. Your support ensures that every LGBTQ+ young person knows they have a community behind them ready to help them build the future they deserve.
Wishing you a meaningful and contemplative Martin Luther King Jr. Day,
Brian Wenke
Executive Director
It Gets Better
P.S. If you’d like to learn more about our life-affirming work, please check out our latest annual report at ItGetsBetter.org.
The It Gets Better Project is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth around the globe. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
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