The United States
celebrates October 11 as National Coming Out Day, a day for meant to spread
awareness about lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and other sexual and
romantic identities. Among the queer communities in the US, the day marks
people “coming out of the closet” and accepting their sexual identities in
public. People from across the country celebrate the day to garner a greater
sense of inclusivity in society.

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Beginnings of
National Coming Out Day

The first National
Coming Out Day was celebrated in 1988. At its initiation, the observance of the
day was spearheaded by feminist and queer activist groups who articulated their
activism in the spirit of “the personal is political”. The spirit of the day
was based on the belief that homophobia, prejudice against people belonging to
other sexualities, was rooted in an atmosphere of silence.

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‘Coming Out’
matters

In the United
States, the National Coming Out Day observance is spearheaded by the Human
Rights Campaign. Events are held under its auspices to promote awareness about
LGBTQ families living regular wholesome lives. Versions of the day are also
celebrated in Ireland, Switzerland, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

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Why is
National Coming Out Day important?

Focused on the
celebration of inclusiveness and people living lives in their own skin the way
they are comfortable; the National Coming Out Day is primarily a celebration of
inclusiveness. The day also shines light on an important movement in history. While
“coming out” to society with their sexual identities has become easier over the
years, especially in western nations, it is important to remember that this was
achieved through years of struggle.

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Theme of this
year’s National Coming Out Day

This will be the
33rd annual celebration of National Coming Out Day. The theme of
National Coming Out Day 2021 is “Born to Shine”. October 11 marks the
anniversary of the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay rights.