Hi John —
365 days. That’s how long it takes for the earth to go around the sun.
365 days. To be proud. To reflect. To be grateful.
365 days. To think about our community.
It’s been one year since I became the President and Board Chair for the It Gets Better Project. It’s been rewarding beyond measure. I’m in awe of the illuminating work that the organization continues to deliver to uplift and empower LGBTQ youth globally. And as our community knows, with every sign of progress — there’s always resistance. Whether it’s the continued violence our BIPOC trans brothers and sisters face or the young queer kid who may not feel safe quarantining in their own home, we still got more work to do.
It’s been over 20 years since I first came out. As a son of Vietnamese refugees who started an unimaginable life in America in the 1970’s, I’ve always learned the basic lessons of Karma from them. The essential reasons to give back. To spread kindness. To give hope even when we feel we are utterly alone.
One common thread we all have in our community may be the fear or potential isolation of life after coming out. It’s our duty to inspire and create a safer world for LGBTQ+ youth to enter into. I want us to let these kids know they are seen, they are loved, and they are MAGIC. Let’s showcase our resilience and brilliance. Let’s create an ecosystem not ruled by fear but with unapologetic pride.
I hope you can contribute to our End of Year campaign. It doesn’t just get better. IT GETS BETTER EVERYDAY.
Paul Dien
President and Board Chair
It Gets Better Project
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