An intriguing ad campaign

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www.stayclose.org




Ben Affleck & his cousin Jason

Ben Affleck is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after leading men. He was once confined to minor television roles and independent films, but fought back by writing the 1997 film “Good Will Hunting” with friend Matt Damon. His role in the hit film and Oscar for Best Original Screenplay made him the international superstar he is today.



Jason came out at age 16 while living in New York with his mother, Linda. He attended a private school and said it was “no big deal” when he revealed his sexuality. He did acknowledge, though, that from that point forward, he “felt out of step with his peers,” leading him to seek opportunities such as volunteering at New York’s Gay Men’s Health Crisis that would allow him interaction with other gay people.



Jason’s acknowledgement of his homosexuality was no surprise to his mother, Linda. “I was just waiting for him to confirm it,” she now says. But, despite her suspicions and early acceptance, the seriousness of his revelation took some time to sink in.



“It wasn’t important to me at the time,” she says. “But later, I realized that my son was a member of an often despised minority group. I was worried about him.”



There are several celebrities featured, including Congressman Meeks of New York (who has a gay brother). I am glad someone thought of this and hope it works. The ads are going to run in Time among other places.

On edit I tried to link to the picture of Ben and his cousin but evidently can't. You will have to go to the site to see the photo which would presumedly be the actual ad.

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1. kick