In what would be a perfect world today, prejudices wouldn’t exist. But, groups of people are still being discriminated against because of who they are, what they look like and who they love.
More than over a quarter of a decade ago, lesbian activist and former nun Jean O’Leary and psychologist Robert Eichberg Ph.D., founded “National Coming Out Day” on Oct.11; the anniversary of the 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay rights, according to the Human Rights Campaign organization’s website.
Rooted in courage, “National Coming Out Day” strengthens the bond between those in the LGBT community and their family and friends.
Their straight loved ones have an opportunity to support LGBT individuals and collectively raise awareness for equality and overall human rights.
The Human Rights Campaign describes coming out as “the process in which a person first acknowledges, accepts and appreciates his or her sexual orientation or gender identity and begins to share it with others.”
According to HRC, “A straight ally is someone who is not gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender (GLBT) but personally advocates for GLBT equal rights and fair treatment.”
Courage and honesty are deeply engrained in National Coming Out Day.
When one says, “I’m gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender” they are implying they want a relationship built upon being open, honest, and genuine.
Shedding light upon injustices such as anti-gay bullying, suicides, hate crimes and basic human rights, National Coming Out Day creates a platform for LBGT members to stand together with supporters in a safe place, creating open minds for others across the nation.
With an increase in public awareness about anti-LGBT bullying and harassment and the strikingly high number of LGBT individuals who are homeless or living in high-risk situations, it is critical that we get a better understanding of the experiences, needs, and concerns of LGBT individuals.
National Coming Out Day can be used as a tool to banish discrimination against those who may have lived their lives feeling different, scared or rejected.
No matter one’s sexual orientation, color of skin or gender, everybody has been or will be discriminated against.
Intolerance is an excuse to justify not wanting to understand or be open to the LGBT community.
National Coming Out Day is an outlet in which everybody can unite and support a group of people in need of encouragement. Take this opportunity today and realize that everybody, regardless of sexual orientation, should be treated equally.