Coming Out Day 2022
Today is National Coming Out Day, a day when the LGBTQ+ community celebrates the ways we tell our stories. For many LGBTQ+ people, coming out is a journey that starts with self-acceptance and culminates in sharing our truth with the world. Coming out is a deeply personal experience, and there is no one way to do it. Some people come out to family and friends first, while others choose to come out publicly through social media or other platforms.
Regardless of how or when someone comes out, it is always a courageous act but it is important to do so when you feel ready.
Today, we celebrate those who have taken that step and have chosen to live their truth. Read on for some inspiring stories from members of the LGBTQ+ community about their coming out journeys.
Three Inspiring Coming Out Stories
"When I was 19 years old, I came out as transgender to my family and friends. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done, but it was also one of the most liberating. I had been living in secret for so long, and finally being able to be my authentic self felt amazing. Today, I am proud to be a transgender woman and an advocate for LGBTQ rights. I hope that my story can inspire others to live their truth."
-Asha Havey, Transgender Activist
"I knew I was gay at a very young age, but I didn't come out until I was 23. I grew up in a religious household where being gay wasn't accepted, so it took me a long time to come to terms with my sexuality. When I finally did come out, it was liberating. I felt like I could finally be myself without hiding who I was. Today, I am proud to be a gay man and an LGBTQ ally."
-Javier Gomez, Gay Activist
"I came out as bisexual when I was 16 years old. It wasn't easy because not everyone in my life was supportive, but it was worth it. Once I came out, I felt like I could breathe for the first time in my life. Being able to be open about my sexuality allowed me to fully embrace who I am. Today, I am proud to be a bisexual woman and an advocate for LGBTQ rights."
-Sage Adams, Bisexual Activist
Coming out can be a difficult experience, but it can also an incredibly brave milestone in your life. Today we celebrate all those who have chosen to live their truth. If you are considering coming out or are in the process of doing so, know that you are not alone—there is an entire community of people who support you and your journey. I am a LGBTQ therapist working with our community to provide support to those of us who need a safe space to explore who we are and celebrate you, no matter where you are in your journey.
And if you are in the early chapter of your coming out story and need guidance, check out this Coming Out Handbook, which I was lucky enough to collaborate on, published by The Trevor Project.
Please contact me if you are looking for a LGBTQ therapist who understands the importance of being understood and accepted. If you or someone you know is ever in crisis or in need of immediate support please contact The Trevor Project or The Trans Lifeline to connect with a counselor 24/7.
I see you. I hear you. YOU MATTER!
