The Lgbt Community Dan Savage - 1033 Words

Evan Cafiero Professor Mohammed MGT 110 Dec 2nd, 2015 Dan Savage Throughout the years, the LGBT community has made numerous strides in equality, recognition, and respect. Every rights movement has its origins, and the push for the LGBT community is no different. Beginning with the Stonewall Riots in New York 40-something years ago, to the protests against Proposition 8 on the west coast, leaders have emerged; countless Americans that believe LGBT persons can become fully vested in the American dream stand behind them. One such leader is Dan Savage—an author, journalist, and primarily, an advocate for the LGBT community. He demonstrates multiple traits of a leader,†¦show more content†¦But these accomplishments are only secondary to his greatest feat—the â€Å"It Gets Better Project†. On September 21st 2010, Savage, along with his husband Terry Miller, put into motion the â€Å"It Gets Better Project† because of the suicide of Billy Lucas, 15 year-old who was perceived to be gay. It e ncourages adults, both LGBT or otherwise, to submit videos assuring gay teenagers that life can improve after bullying in early life. The movement gathered motion instantly and by November of 2013, it had more than 50,000 user created videos, and each testimonial was viewed over 50 million times. Savage gained a following and was recognized amongst the LGBT leaders of the decade, and he demonstrated the qualities of being a leader. First off, he has aspects of the emotional intelligence—traits that allow him to interpret the emotions of those he is fighting for—and against. He knows the struggle of the LGBT person because he, himself, is gay. His multiple channels of communication to his audience reinforce his ability to recognize and meet their needs. Savage’s â€Å"It Gets Better Project† inspired millions with the compelling vision of equality amongst sexual orientations. But, by far, is Savage’s most defining trait—his aggressiveness. Savage is a catalyst for change because he stands up to conservative politicians, and even though he may be harsh, he proves his point. Dan