Hi John,

This Trans Awareness Week, I’m thinking about power, and more importantly, who gets to hold it.

For too long, trans youth have been told to stay quiet, to make themselves smaller, to wait their turn. But at It Gets Better, we know that when trans youth are given the tools, support, and platform to lead, it has the power to save lives.

That's why I’m proud to introduce you to Jay, one of our brilliant Youth Voices ambassadors. In his guest blog, Jay shares how joining the cross-country team didn’t just make him feel like an athlete, it made him feel like he finally belonged. It's a powerful reminder that banning trans kids from sports erases connection, joy, and safety. You can read Jay's story here. 

We’re also sharing a collection of quotes from trans activists across our global affiliate network—powerful, personal reflections on identity, visibility, and resilience. You can view the slideshow here and share on your social channels. 

And finally, we're thrilled to offer an exclusive opportunity to stream the documentary Heightened Scrutiny from home. The film follows ACLU attorney Chase Strangio as he fights to overturn Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for youth—a legal battle with life-or-death consequences. You can rent the film or use the "Pay It Forward" option to gift the rental to someone else. 

Now more than ever, trans youth deserve more than empty promises. They deserve opportunity. They deserve the power and the freedom to lead their own lives. Help us give it to them.

Raelee Sweet (they/them)
Assistant Manager of Education
It Gets Better

P.S. Every donation fuels programs like Youth Voices, It Gets Better: Changemakers, and our storytelling campaigns around the globe. Help us keep showing trans youth what’s possible. Support It Gets Better today. 

It Gets Better 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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