LGBT History Month: National Coming Out Day

Image Source
edited by Diana *BunnyKissd* Bukowski
National Coming Out Day is like a rite of passage for some LGBT people.  Founded in 1988 by psychologist Robert Eichberg and then head of the National Gay Rights Advocates Jean O'Leary, it has spread from a mere 18 states participating to become an internationally observed civil awareness day celebrating individuals who publicly identify as bisexual, gay, lesbian, transgender.  October 11th was chosen because it was the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.

In 1990 the Human Rights Campaign joined with National Coming Out Day, and since the late 90s have had a theme for the day.  This year's theme is "Come Out and Vote" and urges LGBT folks to make their vote count in this year's presidential election.  The holiday is celebrated by wearing pink triangles and rainbow flags and other symbols of LGBT Pride.  Often there are parades and rallies to help raise awareness for LGBT civil rights, and offer support to LGBT individuals, their friends, and families.

~••••••▼••••••~
Also this month:

~ October is also National Bullying Prevention Month.

~ October 10th was Unity Day; wear orange to show your support and remind others about the importance of bullying prevention.

~ October 11th TODAY is National Coming Out Day when we celebrate coming out as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or as an ally. See the Human Rights Campaign website for resources on coming out.

~ October 19th is Spirit Day; wear purple on this day to support LGBT youth & stand up against bullying.