The It Gets Better Project
#ItGetsBetter is a global movement providing hope and support to LGBTQ+ youth facing harassment and discrimination. Founded in September 2010 by columnist Dan Savage and his husband Terry Miller, the project began with a simple YouTube video sharing their personal stories.
Origins & Impact
The campaign launched in response to a series of suicides by teenagers who were bullied for being gay or perceived as gay. Dan Savage and Terry Miller created a video message assuring LGBTQ+ youth that life would improve beyond their difficult teenage years.
The message resonated globally, with thousands of people — including celebrities, politicians, and activists — sharing their own “It Gets Better” videos on YouTube.
Cultural Significance
Within the first month, the project received over 200 video submissions. By 2012, the It Gets Better Project had collected more than 50,000 user-created videos, viewed over 50 million times.
President Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, Tim Gunn, Ellen DeGeneres, and countless others contributed videos sharing messages of hope and resilience.
Legacy
The hashtag continues to trend during LGBTQ+ Pride Month, National Coming Out Day, and whenever LGBTQ+ youth face heightened challenges. The project expanded into a nonprofit organization offering resources, support networks, and educational materials.
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