#National Coming Out Day

By Vivian Gurrola-Amissah |Staff Writer|
This year marked the 27th anniversary of the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) community that brings awareness to individuals who celebrate who they are and the importance of coming out.
“National Coming Out Day” honors those who have revealed their sexual orientation and continue to support those who have yet to “out” themselves.
Since 1988, the LGBTQ community celebrates Oct. 11 as a day of recognition for people that are coming out, regarding their sexual orientation and inspire those who have yet to come out.
Laverne Cox, from “Orange is the New Black,” as well as Caitlyn Jenner are two of the many celebrities that took part in the social media recognition for the day.
There were more than 329,597 Twitter and Instagram posts on Oct. 11 about “National Coming Out Day,” according to Leigh Cuen of vocative.com.
“Coming out is different for every gay or bisexual person,some experience a lot of pain and anguish while others, acceptance is a joyous time,” stated gay life expert Ramon Johnson.
“National Coming Out Day is a day that brings awareness to those who are out or ready to come out and celebrate who [they] are,” said student Fel McCoy.
Coming from a religious family background, McCoy revealed herself about three years ago and now feels sure of who she is. McCoy considers herself “pansexual,” someone whose attraction is not limited by biological sex or gender identity.
“It means a day in which people [like me] get to embrace themselves for who they are. Also an extra push for those who have stayed in silence about their sexuality,” said student Jessica Garcia.
“This day affects me because the world we live in is slowly [showing] sexuality as something that shouldn’t be a secret and you shouldn’t be afraid or ashamed for who you are,” continued Garcia.
The Supreme Court decision made earlier this year regarding same-sex marriage was a breakthrough point that brought power and equality to many communities all around. In today’s society we are in a place where LGBTQ people are more accepted.
Many communities and campuses around the world band together to celebrate achievements and continue to promote awareness for many individuals.
“Posting pictures, [using] social media and just showing pride for what you believe is right,” said student Sehmar Abraham when it comes to finding different ways to celebrate National Coming Out Day.
CSUSB is home to the Pride Center, which is an open and safe environment where students can discuss and be open about themselves with supportive faculty and students ready to listen.
This day gives people an opportunity to open up and share their stories to the world. It’s a process but many believe it has been the best accomplishment of their life.