This project that we are putting together for the It Get Better campaign is all about those of us in the LGBT community and in the game industry (as well as our supporters) coming together to produce a video much like those already seen on the campaign website. As professionals in our industry, it is our job to make products that entertain, spark imagination and innovation, and basically make happiness. As members in our LGBT community, I feel it’s our responsibility to mentor those younger who are questioning themselves, some living in fear of or being bullied for being who they are and being proud of it. Some companies have done their own videos, but as a whole industry, we need to step in.
My idea for the IGDA contribution is all about that first letter, “I”: international. How amazing it would be to contribute a video that consists of voices in different languages, different backgrounds, and different heritages, all sending the same messages? Imagine being a child struggling with these bullying issues or questioning whether or not to stay in “the closet” about your sexuality because you don’t want to be scorned or beat up. But then imagine seeing some of us developers, who make some of their favorite games and work at some of their favorite companies, talking about how we are gay. Unfortunately in our society right now, there is too much that we are told is “not okay,” and not enough acceptance. These are the first steps.
Getting involved in this project is really easy. First, make a video! Answer questions, or just talk about how awesome life is being gay—how life after coming out can be amazing and wonderful, because it really is awesome and wonderful. Second, send me that video! All of my contact information is listed below, and you can find me on Facebook (www.facebook.com/teacupbandit). If there are any questions, I am an open book and usually readily available. Right now there is no deadline, because I want to have a lot of participation. However, I would like to set a checkpoint at the end of the year so we can start 2012 with a bang!
Want to be a part of this? Know someone else who would? Create and donate a video for this amazing cause or pass along the information to other IGDA members.
I need these things from anyone wishing to contribute a video for this project:
1. A video! This could be recorded professionally, or on a webcam—however you want it. Please do not do any editing yourself, as I will be doing it for each video when I combine them.
2. Answer these questions:
-When did you come to recognize your sexuality, and what was it like growing up with that?
-How has life been for you since coming out?
-Who or what has been your support and helped make you stronger?
-What advice do you have for a teen who is struggling with their sexuality?
3. When finished, email me at josh@igdaphx.org. If the video is small enough, include it in the email. You can also use a service such as You Send It. I have also set up a Dropbox for these if you need it. Either way, please let me know how you are getting your video to me. Please name your file with your first and last name, and if you would like, include the company that you work for (if they don’t have any disagreements with it).
SPREAD THE WORD! If you have any questions, again my email is josh@igdaphx.org. Visit http://www.itgetsbetter.org/ for more examples and information.