National Coming Out Day

National Coming Out Day History

National Coming Out Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) or as an ally to the LGBTQ community. The day emphasizes the significance of offering support to LGBTQ individuals and the impact that coming out has on their mental wellbeing. The event encourages open dialogues and acceptance within families, schools, workplaces, and the wider community, while simultaneously aiming to break down misconceptions and promote understanding.

National Coming Out Day has its roots in the United States, where it was first observed on October 11, 1988, in commemoration of the 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. UK-based LGBTQ organisations, such as Stonewall and The LGBTQ Foundation, join the effort to promote awareness, tolerance, and acceptance. The event provides an opportunity to engage in conversations about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in the UK, such as bullying, housing discrimination, and access to specialised healthcare services.

In the United Kingdom, National Coming Out Day is marked with various events across the country. Activities range from educational workshops to social gatherings, promoting the sharing of personal coming out stories and providing a supportive environment for those who are contemplating coming out. The events, organized by educational institutions, LGBTQ organisations, and community groups, help to create a positive atmosphere that encourages honest conversations and understanding. National Coming Out Day in the UK falls on October 11th, highlighting the global importance of solidarity and support for the LGBTQ community.

National Coming Out Day facts

• Some estimates suggest that approximately 8 percent of the world identifies as homosexual, bisexual, or pansexual.
• Most people think they don’t know anyone gay or lesbian, and in fact everybody does. It is imperative that we come out and let people know who we are and disabuse them of their fears and stereotypes -Robert Eichberg
• A survey in 2017 found that two-thirds of Britons said they would not be upset if their child came out as gay or lesbian, reflecting a significant shift in societal attitudes towards homosexuality over the previous three decades.
• According to a 2010 study by Stonewall, the average age at which people in the UK come out as lesbian, gay, or bisexual has been lowering over the years. It has dropped from 37 in the 1960s to 17 in the 2000s.

In the News and Trending in the UK for National Coming Out Day

Top things to do in the UK for National Coming Out Day

• Sign up for an event or attend a march to show solidarity.
• Take this day as an opportunity to learn more about LGBTQ+ history, struggles, and achievements in the United Kingdom. Share this knowledge with others to promote understanding and acceptance.
• Wear rainbow-themed clothing or accessories to show solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community. You can also consider organizing a small event or gathering in your workplace or school to celebrate National Coming Out Day.