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Praise for We Make It Better

“For all LGBTQ teens and young adults, this book will help inspire and empower you to become your best selves. This book shares how the LGBTQ community has made invaluable contributions. It throws open the doors of queer possibility making it clear we can use our imagination to make distinctive marks on our world however we choose.”

—Dustin Lance Black

Academy Award-winning Screenwriter, “Milk”

“The need for positive role models in the LGBTQ Community has never been greater. In a divisive political climate, books like this one encourage and inspire LGBTQ youth to focus on their part in advancing society. Whether in science, technology, education, sports, government or the arts, the LGBTQ community has made an indelible mark on the world. Undaunted by prejudice, marginalization, discrimination and violence, the community has persisted and dedicated its efforts to the greater good. In the words of MLK Jr., “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”

—Libby Schaaf

Mayor of Oakland

“When President Barack Obama came to our school system to highlight our early childhood programs, I had the privilege of representing Clairemont Elementary School. As a lifetime teacher, I so appreciate a book that shines a light on a previously marginalized community. We are an inclusive school system and this book can give us tools to expand the dialogue about history and change.”

—Stephanie Trauner

Elementary School teacher for 26+ years, Clairemont Elementary School, a Blue Ribbon school, City Schools of Decatur, Georgia

“Throughout history, the LGBTQ community has been erased, marginalized or vilified. Since the passing of the F.A.I.R. Education Act in California, that wrong is being corrected at long last. The inclusion of the contributions of the LGBTQ community to society is required to be taught in history and social studies classes in the California public schools. This book shines a spotlight on the amazing contributions of our community. School kids will learn that we are more than the stereotypes the media has projected and how our dedicated efforts in a variety of fields have enhanced the common good.”

—Dr. Ardel Thomas

Chair, LGBT Studies, CCSF

“Give this book to the young people in your life! It will offer inspiration regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. For LGBTQIA young people in particular — for whom coming out can be a tremendously isolating experience filled with uncertainty — this book provides a glimpse into the lives of well-known LGBTQIA people who live full, productive and happy lives, providing hope and strength for their journey as they grow into their blessed, God-created selves.”

—Bishop Karen Oliveto,

Ph.D., First Openly Lesbian United Methodist Church Bishop,

Author, Together at the Table : Diversity Without Division in the United Methodist Church

“At IBM, we value diversity and have lived our values, leading the technology industry with our forward-thinking practices and policies. Not only great for the LGBTQ Community, but great for our business. This book demonstrates that being LGBTQ does not have to inhibit, but can, in fact, enhance your career. When you can be your authentic self, you are your best self.”

—Claudia Brind-Woody, Esq.

Co-Chair Executive Diversity Leadership Council

IBM VP of Global Intellectual Property Licensing

“Growing up in my Maori indigenous culture of New Zealand and with a father who was a leader of our local marae, sacred communal gathering place for 30+ years, I lived the value of community. We believe that we are never alone, our ancestors are always with us and so we share a collective an interconnected identity that helps us to stand strong in solidarity with our ancestors. This book may help you to remember that we are all connected to a global Rainbow family. Find our people - within family, friends, teachers, coaches, counselors, pastors who will support you and help you on your sexual orientation and gender identity journey. We are the potential of our ancestors, free and equal and we are never alone.”

—Louisa Wall, Member of Parliament, New Zealand

Author of the Successful Marriage Amendment Act

Co-Chair of Cross-Party Rainbow Group, New Zealand Parliament

Co-Chair Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, New Zealand Parliament

“Right now, more than ever, we need these stories of sheroes and heroes and gender-expansive warriors to inspire us on our paths toward justice. Kathleen and Eric have eloquently lifted up these stories for all of our benefit, showing us queer and trans people as powerful agents of change, love and liberation.”

—Sean Dorsey

Trans Choreographer and Activist

Founder and Artistic Director, Fresh Meat Productions (2001-Present)

“We’ve had the audacity to fight for social justice for all LGBTQ citizens. This book is dedicated to all LGBTQ young adults and teenagers with big dreams and the perseverance to make those dreams come true. This book is sure to empower the next generation of LGBTQ youth to find their passions and transform the world.”

—Kate Kendell, former Executive Director, National Center for Lesbian Rights