Coming Out Day 2021
11 October 2021 is a day to celebrate and support members of the LGBTQIA+ community in their coming out process, no matter where they are right now — whether that’s out and proud, or only out to a few people in their lives. It’s a day to recognise the hardships that come with coming out and celebrate those have found the courage even in the hardest times to be their true selves.
Okay, sure, that sounds a bit preachy and kumbaya, especially give what feels like the constant negative climate that LGBTQIA+ folks live in every day. But that’s exactly why it’s just as important as ever to celebrate these days, whether or not you’re a member of the community.
Why does coming out matter so much?
This is a question that I’ve heard from non-queer people on more than one occasion, especially when they find out that I’m either (1) a lesbian or (2) an LGBTQIA+ therapist. And sometimes I just want to respond with it just does, but then I remember that for those who have never been confused or even fearful of their identity would never understand or accept this answer.
So, let me say this once. Coming out matters so much because it means finally living the life you were meant to always live. Coming out symbolises accepting yourself no matter what, leaving behind the life you were told you had to live (either explicitly or implicitly, but maybe that’s a topic for another day).
While coming out is not always a positive experience, and it sometimes isn’t even possible, it can oftentimes be seen as the turning point of someone’s life. And what a beautiful turning point it can be.
With this coming out day, I’m not only going to be celebrating and acknowledging my own experience but also the experience of my friends, neighbours, family. I’ll also be thinking of those who can’t come out due to fear — fear of rejection, fear for their life. This day is not just about those who came out, but a day for those who have never, could never, have not yet, plan on it… it’s a day for all of us, visible or not.
