London's Favourite Gay Pride Parade Video

I love this parade video because it represents more of what I remember
'pride' being about back in the day; a vast array of differentness being
celebrated under the banner of togetherness and similarity.

Granted, London is one of the more diverse and larger gay scenes in the
world, but rather than using that as an excuse to say "Well of course
you'll find diversity--and celebration of such--there," what if we looked
to the inclusiveness of this parade as a foundation, or a template, for how
things can work if we try?

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Ray Boltz: "God Knows I Tried"

Regulars know I hold little regard for religion as it offers far more harm than help.

In that vein, I realize that due to the insanity of religion, many people of LGBT
origin/makeup have had horrible times coming to terms with their identity.
Here's the song for you.

The slowly appearing text in the 'video' is a bit annoying, but the message of
coming to grips with one's sexuality over many painful years is handled honestly
and aptly, and the further personal message in the type is worth reading.

There's a light at the end of the tunnel.

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What I Have To Say

(taken from the Heartstrong newsletter)


The video above is from a student who was bullied by a teacher and others in his high school in Palm Coast, FL We are grateful for his courage to stand up for himself and for those in his school who are not able to stand for themselves.

Youth Empowerment Project picks up speed.
Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) is a multi-year project of HeartStrong which will provide digital educator's guides to every school counselor in the US at public, private and religious educational institutions. YEP also provides free resources and outreach materials to GSA's and other groups. It is a mammoth project several years in the making.

We are continually asked how YEP is funded. While we have attempted to gain some grant money for this project the bulk of the funding will come from individuals making donations.
Since the majority of YEP is done electronically using email, etc., it is a very cost effective program. However the overall cost of YEP including the resource materials for GSA's and others is at about $50,000 for the entire project. This is above and beyond the funding needed for the other work for HeartStrong.

We are using every means possible to to as much as we can with what we are given.

Individuals and groups wishing to donate to help YEP reach school counselors and youth can donate by clicking here. Donations are tax deductible.

Donate here to help HeartStrong do this work.

Keep up to date with YEP by joining us on Facebook and on twitter @HeartStrongYEP