Coming Out as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender
"There are many good reasons to come out. It can be a tremendous relief
to be open about your identity and to stop investing lots of energy in
keeping secrets and worrying about what might happen if others "find
out." Being honest can help to bridge that distance you may have been
keeping from friends and family, and can result in closer and more
meaningful relationships with loved ones. And when you’re not
constantly worried about meeting others’ expectations, you can put all
of your energy into being authentic--in how you dress, talk, spend your
time, and date.
There are also reasons to wait to come out to others. If you are under
18 and/or financially dependent on others, you may not want to come out
if there is a chance you will be kicked out of your home or left to
fend for yourself. If you fear harassment, abuse, or loss of emotional
support, this too may be reason to put off coming out until you are in
a more secure position.
If you are unsure about whether or not to come out, take your time and
think things through rather than acting impulsively. Read books or
magazines by and for LGBT youth. Watch a video about LGBT issues, join
an online community, or call an LGBT hotline. If there is a youth group
or trusted adult to whom you can safely and confidentially turn, take
advantage of this option. You may also want to keep a daily journal of
your reflections, questions, thoughts and fears until you are clear as
to the right path for you."
Exerpt taken from Coming Out: A Guide for Youth and Their Allies. 23 Jan. 2003. GLSEN. <http://www.glsen.org/cgi-bin/iowa/all/library/record/1290.html >.
If you have decided that it is time to come out, the ALLYance provides a safe and accepting place with others who have experienced similar fears and allies who support your decision. Please feel welcome to join us for a meeting. If a meeting is too large, you are welcome to contact the ALLYance advisor or officers.
Remember, coming out is a private matter that you, and only you, will know "when" the appropriate time occurs. Be honest, be yourself, and be proud of who you are. Being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender does not define the whole of who you are, but it is certainly an important aspect of you!
Coming out resources:
