Celebrate National Coming Out Day

Today we celebrate National Coming Out day!

Coming out can be such a personal and important event for many in the LTBTQ+ family. We take this time to celebrate those who are brave enough to come out to us and support those who still struggle.

No matter where you fall in the LGBTQ+ rainbow, today is a day to celebrate your queerness and be proud of who you are.

October 11, 2021, is Coming Out Day – a day that celebrates a human’s overcoming of the challenges and emotions that can occur when one embraces that they are part of the Alphabet Mafia, and their ability to share their story with others.

This year will mark the 33rd anniversary of National Coming Out Day.

Thirty-three years ago, on the anniversary of the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, we first observed National Coming Out Day as a reminder that one of our most basic tools is the power of coming out.

Coming out is a very personal event. And while it can be difficult for many, it also gives that individual the ability to be their authentic self.

“Coming out is very empowering, but it also can be very nerve-wracking,” says an employee. “But when people know you are LGBTQ+, they are far more likely to support equality under the law...and beyond that, it can inspire others to speak their truth as well."

Every person who speaks up has the chance to change more hearts, more minds, and create new advocates for support and equality.

Coming out is also not merely a one-time event.

As you live your life, get different jobs, meet new people and develop new relationships, humans must come out over and over again. Sometimes it becomes easier, other times it remains just as difficult. When societal norms are placed on someone that does not follow them, it can be difficult to continuously break down those “norm” walls.

“The truth is -- there is not just one coming out moment,” says another employee. “I’ve come out to many people over the years -- friends, colleagues, bosses, siblings, and parents…it’s usually the most difficult ones that are the most important relationships.”

As you celebrate Coming Out Day, enjoy the new relationships that have flourished when you exposed your true and full self and try and let go of any pain that you may have experienced because of lost relationships.

Remember, you are perfect just the way you are!

“As someone that came out later in life, I had to come out to myself before I could come out to anyone else,” says another employee. “Being one way for over 40 years and then turning that on its head, is not easy. However, my partner and I have helped show others that “love is love” and no matter what love looks like, it should be celebrated.”

As fellow humans, we should try not to continue the status quo of assuming societal norms of others. The LGBTQ+ community should be the first to embrace and celebrate being different… and leave assumptions to others that may not be aware of the beauty and happiness that being special brings.

If you want to share your thoughts or personal story – please send an email to idea@flagshipinc.com.