The “It Gets Better Project” is an amazing example of how the internet can create a community and in this case, save lives. The campaign targets gay youth who are being bullied, feeling isolated and may be considering suicide as an alternative. The project was started by Dan Savage, a columnist and activist, after he was moved by the suicide of a high school student who was a target of bullying because he was gay. Savage blogged about his death, saying “My heart breaks for the pain and torment you went through, Billy Lucas. I wish I could have told you that things get better.”
Today, Savage raises awareness and asks everyone to take the pledge; “Everyone deserves to be respected for who they are. I pledge to spread this message to my friends, family and neighbors. I'll speak up against hate and intolerance whenever I see it, at school and at work. I'll provide hope for lesbian, gay, bi, trans and other bullied teens by letting them know that "It Gets Better."”
Savage created ItGetsBetter.Org, a website with a collection of video testimonials from adults in the gay community. The videos provide comfort to those that feel alone, reminding them that they aren’t the only ones in a tough situation. There are videos where members of the community, like a congressman, offers support, hope and his own story reminding viewers “I used to be fifteen.” There are also videos where people document thier “coming out,” in this case a man finally tells his parents he is gay and records it for all to see, or rather, relate.