#StorySaturday: Chris' Story

Everyone in the LGBTQ+ community has different experiences, especially with coming out. While we know everyone’s situation is different, sharing the stories and lessons of others could help out those who may want to come out or simply learn from their peers. So Pride Palace created #StorySaturday, a tradition in which we amplify the stories and experiences of people from the LGBTQ+ community. This #StorySaturday will be featuring Chris, a proud member of the Pride Palace community! 

Chris, found at @chris.is.cancer on Instagram, uses he/they/she pronouns. He shared with Pride Palace that at first, he came out as bi. The reaction was not as bad as they thought it would be.

“When I first came out as bi, they patted me on the back and said, good we didn’t want grandchildren anyways,” said Chris.

 

However, Chris later came out as gender fluid. According to Harvard Health, gender fluidity refers to change over time in a person’s gender expression or gender identity, or both.

 

Chris told Pride Palace, “When I came out as gender fluid they weren't so accepting, I've sort of had to re-closet myself twice.”

Sometimes, families can unfortunately be extremely unsupportive when it comes to their children identifying as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. It’s important to surround yourself with people who love and support you, even if that can’t be your parents or guardians.

“I’m lucky to have a really supportive friend group,” said Chris. “Since they've found out about both of them, they've used my preferred name and pronouns since!”

 

Pride Palace is beyond proud of Chris for staying true to herself and inspiring others to do the same. It takes courage to figure out who you are, and even more to stand up to anyone who tries to tell you any differently. We are LGBTQ+, and we are proud. If you would like to share your story with us and see your name in one of our blogs, don’t hesitate! Remember you can share your own story by joining our Facebook group or by direct messaging our Instagram page. Happy Saturday, Pride Palace family!