Things you should know about National Coming out Day.
Pride Palace supports, accepts, and loves you regardless of who you are and how you identify. Today, October 11, 2021, we want to join you in celebrating National Coming Out Day. Whether you are out of the closet or have chosen to keep your identity to yourself, today serves as a reminder that we all have the power and strength to come out if we choose to.
So when did National Coming Out Day Begin?
Thirty-three years ago, on October 11, 1988, the first National Coming Out Day was celebrated, but how did the day get created? On October 14, 1979, the first National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights occurred. This march aimed to nationalize the Gay Rights Movement that was more of a local fight at the time. That event was successful, and in 1987, approximately eight years later, the Second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights occurred. This second march led to months of protests and progress, so the first Coming Out Day was established to continue the momentum a year later.
Why is the day important?
Coming out is the process of recognizing, accepting, and outwardly sharing one’s identity. Today is important because it celebrates everyone in the LGBTQ+, regardless of if they are out yet. For many, “coming out of the closet” is not just a one-time thing to one group of people. Some are openly out to their entire networks. Others are out to few people or still live in the closet to this day. No matter where you are in your coming out journey, your choices are valid, and you are loved. We hope today helps shine a light in your life and continues to give you the courage to live your life as authentically as you feel you can.
Pride Palace is here to support you.
As you can see, there is no one way to come out. If you are not out but are thinking about it, we encourage you to wait until you are ready and be sure to come out first to someone or a group of people you trust. If you are out, we hope you remain proud to be you and would love to offer you the opportunity to share your story on our platform. Message us “Story Saturday” to our Instagram to find out the next steps on how you can potentially be featured on our page.
Comments
I am 15 and Pansexual! I have come out to my both of my parents. My step dad, step mom, and my one aunt and uncle know too! (Divorced parents) I might not have come out the best way to my mom… A couple years ago we were in an argument and something was connected to lgbtqia+ and I told her when we were arguing. But a while after she told me I was going to hell that night, she became very supportive like my dad. My closest friends know as well.
I am 41 years old. I am bi-sexual. I am married to a man, so everyone just assumes I am straight. Those that know me best, know I am bi. I have yet to come out to my very strict Catholic parents and may never do so. Sometimes it bothers me. I almost told my mom the night before my wedding but couldn’t bring myself to do it. I literally stammered saying “Mom, I am bbbb-Buddhist.” I came out about my spirituality that night which was hard enough. That was 15 years ago. I am coming to terms with the fact that I may never tell them and that’s ok. It’s been a heck of a road, but I am proud to be 🌈
Can’t tell you how much it means to have the support and love that Pride Palace offers. Don’t know what I’d do without this group some days. Not out yet but getting closer. Thanks!🌈❤️