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In many respects I agree with your thoughts on the "It Gets Better" campaign. The premise behind the idea that "it will get better one day" relies on the assumption that when a person gets older, matures, and becomes more wise to the ways of the world, that they will be better equipped to handle the almost-constant discriminatory rhetoric and policies that many LGBT individuals face on a daily basis. And for many, age and experience does make dealing with the harsh reality that is our society in the 21st century not easier, but more manageable. Somewhat in keeping with the spirit of your piece, one of the things about the campaign that concerns me is that along with the idea that "things will get better one day" there is also the supposition that things, as they exist today, are OK. Like yourself, I do not believe things are near as rosey as all that. In fact, in light of the legislation just passed in Tennessee allowing the outright, overt and blatant discrimination against homosexuals, it would seem that we've taken another fairly atypical "step backward." Like yourself, I say "Enough already!" It's passed the time when we should not accept being treated as second-class citizens (or even worse in some places). It's passed the time when we should NOT accept someone using our sexual orientation for an excuse to dismiss the reality of our being a human being, and their justification for denying us every right, freedom and opportunity that is guaranteed, protecting and provided to the majority of society. Some might suggest that things are better. And compared to the days when a homes were entered into by-force, and people and were being arrested for the person they might be having intimate relations with, I suppose they are. But in all honesty, it is difficult to truly know what it is like to be able to live openly, proudly, and FREELY as a member of the LGBT community and society at-large because that day has not arrived, as of yet. "It Gets Better" is an important message campaign for those facing horrendous pressures that threaten to force them to consider suicide as a "way out." But it by no means ... and I'm not suggesting the campaign or its creator(s) are suggesting otherwise ... should be considered sufficient to meet the needs of all of the members of the LGBT community.
doniel pressley
i really didn't like the "it only gets better" ads although i respect the intent and energy behind them. i agree with you that it sounds "passive" and extremely unrealistic towards "ghetto" youth, which often times are black, latino, and asian men. i like to hear as well, "i fight back back with..." rather "it only gets better." and, i hope not to offend some gay men, but i really don't think its even fair or equal representation if you are always hearing from oblivious feminine or cultured gay men. gay men, gay people come under a umbrella of diversity and colors and all face adversity differently and should be reflected and expressed as well.
May 27, 2011