The Austin Lesbian and Gay Police Officers Association unveiled its own version of the “It Gets Better” viral video. The video features sworn and civilian Austin Police Department employees sharing their personal LGBT stories and experiences. Police Chief Art Acevedo also shared a message of support.
“Being a gay woman growing up through the 60s and 70s, it was a lot more different. You felt a lot more isolated,” APD Commander Cathy Haggerty said. “I thought I was the only one that was like that.” So Haggerty and more than two dozen members of APD and the Lesbian and Gay Peace Officers Association are participating in the national campaign to impart a life lesson on to youth struggling with similar fears.
For lesbian and gay Texans, the Austin “It Gets Better” video represents more than just a campaign for suicide prevention. Their message for teens is that you can be proud of your state and of who you are.
Population of focus: Lesbian and gay youth in Austin, TX
Link to resource: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBPhJjzLjmk&feature=player_embedded#!
Organization: Austin Police Department
Date: 2012