Fossil students on Coming Out Day

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We’re no different, and people need to start realizing that

— Anonymous

National Coming Out Day, an annual celebration for the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies, is an important day of discovery for friends and families of many Americans. Fossil Ridge High School students speak about their experiences with being a part of the LGBT community and coming out.

“We’re no different, and people need to start realizing that,” says an anonymous source. “It’s to get people to see we’re all the same, we’re all people. We don’t need a day to celebrate that, it’s stupid that we have to,” they say, when talking about the impact they hope national Coming Out day will have on the nation, and even the world. “It’s a good day because people get to celebrate who they are. But I think that should be every day, you know what I mean?”

Of course, it’s important to remember all of the LGBT+ people who are still hiding who they are in fear, shame, or for their own safety.* “Just remember it’s not a choice,” says anonymous, who sympathizes with those who have unaccepting parents. “I’m out to my friends but not my parents. My parents would not accept me. I don’t think they’d kick me out, but they’d despise me.”

“Wait until you feel ready and you know how to bring it up to them. If they’re the kind of parents that will kick you out to that extreme, then just wait until you’re ready for the consequences,” says Sienna Morgan, a junior. “I’m out to both my parents and my friends. Parents was harder, because of their religious beliefs. Friends were a lot easier. They’re all supporting.”

Another important part of the LGBT+ community is the supportive allies. Having a support system when coming out is so important- and allies like junior Sam Schaefer are here to help. “I don’t look at people as ‘gay people’ or ‘trans people,’ I just look at them as people,” she says. “Don’t be concerned about how people see you. If they think you’re gay for being an advocate or an ally, so what? Just make sure you support people.”

While there are many current issues and differing opinions surrounding the LGBT community, National Coming Out Day is important for so many Americans. “It’s a great day for people to express who they are and not be afraid to do that.”

*If you feel you are in danger from yourself or others, there are resources for you. Try here, here, here, and here.