Dear John —

Growing up in a suburban neighborhood with Catholic immigrant parents, I never dreamed of the day I could be open about whom I loved. I only came out eight years ago, at the age of 33, because I had been in a committed relationship with my now-husband Tim for nine years and I wanted to propose to him. To complicate matters, I was already well into my career on Wall Street, an industry that sometimes felt more like a locker room than an office, and had only recently come out to my manager and team. 

Like an onion, I was peeling back each layer one by one, learning how to be comfortable in my own skin and unlearning years of hiding behind switched pronouns and fabricated stories about weekend plans or the vacation I just took. My parents were the last but most important phase of my “coming out” and, in spite of my financial independence and the strength I received from a support system built over more than a decade, I was terrified.

I was in Los Angeles for work and stopped at home to see my parents and I broke the news over lunch. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my entire life. I look back on that Friday afternoon with fondness because I feel fortunate that my parents ultimately accepted me. But I also know it could have gone a very different way. 

I realize today the importance of organizations like the It Gets Better Project in inspiring young people to look beyond their current situation toward a brighter future where they are secure in who they are and feel loved and accepted. Had I been exposed to more LGBTQ+ role models or been part of a community tied by shared experiences, I likely would have come out sooner.  

As a board member of the It Gets Better Project, I strive to be one more voice that empowers LGBTQ+ youth around the world and provide a venue for more voices to be heard and celebrated. While my journey was far easier than most, I also see the potential in paving a road so future generations never feel they are walking alone. 

Please join me in supporting the It Gets Better Project. This was a difficult year for all of us, and now more than ever we need to continue building a community in a world where we’re also compelled to be socially distant. Please consider a donation today so we can continue the critical work required in 2021 and beyond.

Thank you.

Justin Wee
Board of Directors
​It Gets Better Project

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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