In the midst of a rapidly changing social and political landscape, a prominent LGBTQ+ youth organization has taken a significant step forward. The organization, originally known as the It Gets Better Project, has rebranded itself simply as “It Gets Better.” This change is not just in name but also reflects a broader mission to support and empower LGBTQ+ youth across America.
The genesis of this movement can be traced back to a 2010 viral video by Dan Savage and Terry Miller. Their message, “It gets better,” resonated globally, sparking a movement and leading to the formation of the It Gets Better Project. The organization provided a beacon of hope and resilience for LGBTQ+ youth, a platform that has grown and evolved over the years.
Adapting to a New Generation
The rebranding comes at a crucial time. With increasing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and a challenging climate for queer youth, the need for accessible, digital resources has never been greater. Brian Wenke, the executive director of It Gets Better, emphasized the importance of creating a safe and welcoming community for youth, especially in the current socio-political environment.
Ross von Metzke, the organization’s senior director of communications, highlighted the significance of the rebranding. Moving beyond the ‘project’ status, It Gets Better is now a comprehensive support system for queer youth, focusing on connecting young people with each other, rather than solely providing adult mentorship.
Navigating Challenges and Providing Hope
Von Metzke acknowledged the complexities faced by LGBTQ+ youth, especially in states with restrictive policies on LGBTQ+ discussions and education. The organization’s digital platform plays a vital role in providing information and support, countering the lack of resources in educational settings.
The new website features a comprehensive LGBTQ+ glossary and resources aimed at educating and empowering youth. This includes a search functionality built around the glossary, allowing young people to explore their identity and access related educational resources.
Inspiring a New Generation of Activists
Despite setbacks, such as the rejection of a grant in Lynchburg, Virginia, to support LGBTQ+ students, the organization remains committed to its mission. The majority of their initiatives have been successful, funding a range of projects from gender-neutral restrooms to inclusive educational resources.
The shift in focus and rebranding of It Gets Better signifies more than just a name change. It represents the ongoing evolution of a movement, adapting to the needs of a new generation and continuing to provide hope, support, and empowerment to LGBTQ+ youth in an ever-changing world.