The strongest statement a person can make is being
themselves in the face of entire societies telling them they can’t. Sometimes
it is only by being authentic to oneself that people around will come to accept
it - few can understand what they have never encountered.
That’s why coming out is such an important step, people will rarely stand up for issues that do not affect them directly. When they see their favorite actor, singer, or writer coming out it can often times be a wakeup call. Simply put people don't realize LGBTQ+ people exist in their own spheres. It is by lending one's voice to the chorus of LGBTQ+ people proclaiming their existence to their neighbors, families, and friends, that awareness comes to be.
There is, however, an inherent contradiction that must be acknowledged: if LGBTQ+ people are those given the burden of disclosure, one is encouraging the idea that being straight and cis is normal and anything else is a deviation.
It is my personal opinion that no one should be forced to come out, the onus should not be on any individual to disclose their identity in any way. Not only is it often unnecessary, but it can also sometimes be difficult and even dangerous. That being said, visibility is important, and it is by ensuring people realize LGBTQ+ are part of their everyday life that the LGBTQ+ rights movement can be fully realized simply as a human rights movement.
So, on this National Coming Out Day let us celebrate our identities for what they are, beautiful inalienable parts of us. Let us also recognize that there are people who cannot or do not disclose their identity for a variety of reasons. Regardless, let us highlight the bravery that is required to embark on a journey of self-acceptance. Let us aim for a future where coming out will be a thing of the past, where nobody’s identity is assumed, simply accepted with open hearts.
Be kind to others, but first to yourself,
Pablo <3
I am a gay white Latino cis man and I recognize the privilege that comes with my identity, let us acknowledge our own privilege so that we can better love those around us.
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About National Coming Out Day
“On Oct. 11, 1987, half a million people participated in the March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. Recognizing that the LGBTQ community often reacted defensively to anti-LGBTQ actions, they came up with the idea of a national day to celebrate coming out and chose the anniversary of that second march on Washington to mark it. The originators of the idea were Rob Eichberg and Jean O'Leary. From this idea the National Coming Out Day was born.”
- From the Human Rights Campaign
That’s why coming out is such an important step, people will rarely stand up for issues that do not affect them directly. When they see their favorite actor, singer, or writer coming out it can often times be a wakeup call. Simply put people don't realize LGBTQ+ people exist in their own spheres. It is by lending one's voice to the chorus of LGBTQ+ people proclaiming their existence to their neighbors, families, and friends, that awareness comes to be.
There is, however, an inherent contradiction that must be acknowledged: if LGBTQ+ people are those given the burden of disclosure, one is encouraging the idea that being straight and cis is normal and anything else is a deviation.
It is my personal opinion that no one should be forced to come out, the onus should not be on any individual to disclose their identity in any way. Not only is it often unnecessary, but it can also sometimes be difficult and even dangerous. That being said, visibility is important, and it is by ensuring people realize LGBTQ+ are part of their everyday life that the LGBTQ+ rights movement can be fully realized simply as a human rights movement.
So, on this National Coming Out Day let us celebrate our identities for what they are, beautiful inalienable parts of us. Let us also recognize that there are people who cannot or do not disclose their identity for a variety of reasons. Regardless, let us highlight the bravery that is required to embark on a journey of self-acceptance. Let us aim for a future where coming out will be a thing of the past, where nobody’s identity is assumed, simply accepted with open hearts.
Be kind to others, but first to yourself,
Pablo <3
I am a gay white Latino cis man and I recognize the privilege that comes with my identity, let us acknowledge our own privilege so that we can better love those around us.
————————
About National Coming Out Day
“On Oct. 11, 1987, half a million people participated in the March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. Recognizing that the LGBTQ community often reacted defensively to anti-LGBTQ actions, they came up with the idea of a national day to celebrate coming out and chose the anniversary of that second march on Washington to mark it. The originators of the idea were Rob Eichberg and Jean O'Leary. From this idea the National Coming Out Day was born.”