National Coming Out Day

It is an annual LGBTQ awareness day observed to support lesbian, gay, bisexual,  transgender, and queer in "coming out of the closet." National Coming Out Day will continue to raise awareness for individuals within the LGBTQ community and champion the idea that homophobia thrives in silence. On this day, many people who identify as LGBTQ will “come out” to friends or family about their sexuality, which is a very big moment! Beyond this, the history of the LGBTQ movement is a beacon of light where its champion is honored and praised throughout the day.

It was first celebrated in the United States in 1998 with the initial idea grounded in the feminist and gay liberation spirit of the personal being political. In addition, there has been more emphasis on the most basic form of activism, based on individuals in the LGBTQ community coming out to family, friends, colleagues, and living life as an openly lesbian or gay person. Now, some of you may be wondering, what's LGBTQ. It shouldn't be what but who. LGBTQ+ is an initialism that means, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and plus.

Plus defines as all the gender identities and sexual orientations. In use since the 1990s, the initialism, as well as some of its common variants functions as an umbrella term for sexuality and gender identity. It may refer to anyone who is non-heterosexual or non-cisgender, instead of exclusively to people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.

Now that you have some knowledge about this day, it's time for you to act! Many do this by waving flags associated with LGBTQ+ groups or donning pins. But there are so many other things that you could do!

Celebrations can range from self-care to self-assessment. One way to observe National Coming Out Day is to keep your senses keen on your local community and social media feeds. Take the time to read, listen, and enjoy while amplifying those voices. Share them with your friends and other allies. Another way to celebrate is by learning more about queer history. Bring friends together to undo the layers of invisibility and silence that have buried so many marginalized communities.

If you’re feeling charitable, donate to LGBTQ organizations doing work for the community, such as the LGBT National Help Center, Human Rights Campaign, and more. Try taking part in local or online reading and instructional groups as well!