The Brothers Network

A Message to LGBT Youth from President Obama

“You are not alone…there are people out there who love you and care about you just the way you are.”

That was the key message President Barack Obama delivered to LGBT youth in his contribution to the still-spreading “It Gets Better” campaign. The campaign was launched by openly gay advice columnist Dan Savage in response to the recent rash of suicides of gay teenagers unable to cope with incidents of bullying, harassment and malicious outing.

While the forecast for too many African American men looks bleak–low graduation rates, disproportionate amounts incarcerated, and a system that allows them to fall between the cracks–one inner city school has been a ray of light, pushing its students to dream beyond their environment.

Founded by 100 Black Men, Inc., The Eagle Academy for Young Men is a model to behold. Its 80% graduation rate for black males trumps both society’s expectations and the overall 54% graduation rate in New York City. Boys in grades 9-12 come to school wearing starched uniforms and leave with the international experiences, personal attention and college preparation usually reserved for elite boarding schools.

Across the country, the status quo has proven insufficient. Video of how Eagle Academy provides a positive alternative.