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-- > Why Come Out? If you are questioning whether you really need to come out to others, remember that it is one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself. It is also a powerful thing you can do for others, as public opinion shows that people who know someone gay are more likely to support our quest for equality. Coming out may be one step in your life but it contributes to a giant leap for all GLBT people, today and in the future. --> Coming Out to Yourself some of the most difficult and important decisions in the lives of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people relate to coming out. That is because the only way we will stop the discrimination gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people face is to reveal our true selves to our friends, families, neighbors - and elected officials who have the power to change the laws that affect our lives. Coming out to yourself is the first part of your journey. If the idea of coming out is new to you, however, you may wonder what exactly does "coming out" mean? How do you know if you are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender? What are the facts about sexuality and gender identity? How can you tell if you are bisexual? What does transgender mean? --> Coming out to Others After coming out to yourself, a common next step is to come out to others. Some people find that testing the waters before coming out to friends and family is helpful. Others find that coming out online is a good way to begin talking to others. Some GLBT people also must navigate how to come out to their children. --> Coming out Throughout Life Even after coming out to yourself and the important people in your life, you will find that coming out is a lifelong journey that requires that you make frequent decisions about whether to come out to someone new. For example, GLBT people must make coming-out decisions in the workplace, the military, with a health care provider and in a place of worship. Coming out truly is a never-ending journey. |
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