RIP Asher Brown, a 13 year-old boy from Texas who killed himself after excessive bullying about his size, his beliefs, and about being gay.
RIP Seth Walsh, a 13 year-old boy from California who died in hospital due to injuries sustained after attempting to hang himself. Seth had reported being bullied for years for being gay.
RIP Billy Lucas, a 15 year-old boy from Indiana, who hung himself in his parents' barn after enduring bullying because he was gay.
RIP Justin Aaberg, a gay 15 year-old boy from Minnesota, who hung himself after suffering the torment of bullying at his high school.
RIP Tyler Clementi, a 18 year-old freshman at Rutgers University, who lept to his death after his roommate posted video online of Clementi having a sexual encounter with another man.
These tragic and heartbreaking deaths all took place within the last month. Despite some important gains in legal protection and rights, and an increased profile of LGBT people on TV, bullying within middle school and high school remains very dangerous and pernicious for LGBT youth as well as those perceived to be LGBT.
In reponse to this crisis, well-known columnist Dan Savage has launched the It Gets Better Campaign, asking folks, both celebrity and non-celebrity, to share messages of hope and reassurance to LGBT teens who may be struggling with their own bullying, feelings of self-loathing, and may be feeling all alone. There are hundreds of videos of people sharing very touching personal stories and messages. Please have a look and please share with your social networks.
With my love and gratitude to my friends and family, who have always loved me for who I am. I would not be here without you. Love, Stacy
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