I've come out as an ally, will you?

National Coming Out Day was this past Monday, October 11. It is a day that fosters awareness and strives toward a world where everyone can be open about who they are, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. It is for people who support equality and want to promote justice for our community.

This year, National Coming Out Day has tragically been marked by a string of suicides, where teens who have been bullied and harassed to the point where they feel that they have no other options. These young people are Tyler Clementi, Asher Brown, Seth Walsh, Billy Lucas, Justin Aaberg, Jaheem Herrera, Eric Mohat, Carl Hoover and Raymond Chase who in one way or another had been isolated and persecuted because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Sexual and gender identity issues need to be discussed openly, and we all need to become a support system for people who are trying to come out. It is a point of transition that is difficult to put into words and it is not made easier by harsh peer harassments and mistreatment. Even if you don’t identify yourself as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer person, ask how you can become an ally.

“This is a moment where every one of us — parents, teachers, students, elected officials and all people of conscience — needs to stand up and speak out against intolerance in all its forms.” – NY Times

For more info on National Coming Out Day check out Human Rights Campaign’s website.

By Stephanie Rodriguez, Policy Intern