Councilmember Releases LGBT Support Video

Long Beach city officials are doing their part to add to the nationwide "It Gets Better" project, which aims to provide support for those who suffer at the hands of bullying and harassment due to their sexual orientation.

Monday, city councilmember Robert Garcia released the video on the city's website, which features Mayor of Long Beach Bob Foster, City Human Rights Commissioner Raul Arnorve, and local realtors Jeff Anderson and Torey Carrick, who are married, amongst others.

“I’m proud of Long Beach for being a part of this project, and proud to live and represent a city that honors diversity and supports everyone," said Garcia, who is also featured in the video. “I’m very grateful to the Mayor and all of our community leaders for representing our city so well.” 

Over 25,000 user-created videos have been published across the country, and the videos have attracted over 40 million views worldwide.

"I believe the City of LB has a responsibilty, as the most diverse city in the nation, to get involved in this effort and to commit to helping spread a message of hope, education and awareness to LGBT youth in the community," Arnorve said in regards to the city's push to get involved with the anti-bullying program.

President Obama and Ellen DeGeneres are amongst the big names that have made cameos in videos, which show members of the LGBT community sharing personal experiences with bullying and harassment, and providing advice for those who may be encountering similar circumstances.

"It is well understood by many that many LGBT youth can't picture what their lives might be like as openly gay adults," Arnorve said. "They can't imagine a future for themselves. So many organizations, cities, and celebrities have come together to show them what our lives are like and what the future may hold in store for them."

Arnorve also added that "Long Beach is a great example" of support for the LGBT community. 

Currently, there are two openly gay Long Beach City Councilmembers, as well as a Gay and Lesbian Community Center and LGBT advisory group for the chief of police.

The city-produced video will premiere Wednesday on LBTV at 8:45pm.