Fort Worth councilman offers hope to youths struggling with their sexuality

Fort Worth City Councilman Joel Burns (pictured) delivered on his goal to reach out to youths who are struggling with their sexuality. During a moving speech at a recent council meeting, the openly gay Burns reflected on his own closeted youth and his reaction to youths taking their lives after being bullied because of their sexuality. “High school was difficult, coming out was painful,” he said. “I want to tell any teen who is watching this, life will get better. Life will get so, so, so much better.” Burns said he’d like to give his 13-year-old self – who also struggled with being gay – glimpses into the future. His younger version would see him meeting his partner, being loved by his parents, winning a City Council election, Burns said.

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