Coming out a challenge straights do not face

Coming out to family and friends can be a traumatic journey.

This journey is complicated as one may be, over time, consumed with fear of parental acceptance, peer rejection or perhaps internalized homophobia, which can be a prolonged period of anger at one’s self for wishing not to be in that situation.

How are we able to take this important step towards revealing ourselves to the world and feel a level of comfort? The task is daunting for many — however, a necessary step that will influence future years. As well, many are in a comfort level and simply decide to come out and be comfortable with that decision. Some at an early age, as they have realized their sexual orientation as soon as they are sexually aware, perhaps as young as eight or 10.

We also know that coming out at a later age may have negative consequences because of family, friends, in schools or at work, may have an influence on equal treatment. Socially, one’s sexual orientation remains a controversial issue and we must not be idle and feel society has come a long way towards acceptance.

Yes, pockets of our population are very much at ease with family members or friends coming out to them and not face guilt or rejection. We have come a long way, but years of hard work are still ahead as the majority of the globe’s population remains in limbo, or simply reject sexual orientation and true gender identity outright. The so-called “straight” members of our society are not questioned as to why they identify as such.

Of course, we really know the answer and we will be told that it is “normal.” That answer begs the following question; what is normal? How does one define that word, how do we accept the answer defined years ago? The word should not exist as we are all unique and to be “normal” takes that away because straight society has defined it and the LGBTQ+ population is not included. We are in a different time, with many people becoming aware of their true identity, not one ordered upon us. The forerunners for equal rights were correct in taking on the task, to come out, to demand equal treatment, be who they are, regardless of sexual orientation. Straight society is only one part of the picture and those who have gone before us, the initiators for equality, were very aware that straights ruled with an iron fist, making the rules, taking for granted gays were a minor nuisance. Religious factions were more vocal in opposition to LGBTQ equal rights. We have realized some changes in the world of religion, but those on the right remain strongly opposed to members of the LGBTQ+ community. How do we convince them otherwise, or should we just ignore the opposition and take our rightful place?

Yes, it is indeed our obligation to come out with pride and determination, and in doing so working to end discrimination. Many around the world are engaged in raising awareness and fighting for equal rights, which are human rights. Should we ask if someone is straight, or do we simply say, “We are here, alongside all others? The only difference is that each of us is unique and thankful that we are who we are”. Do we really care if someone is “straight”, or lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or any other identification? How important is it if we wish to know how a person identifies? The person cannot change who he/she is, and above all, attempts to do so must be squashed.

We are here, and we share the world with so many, so let us, each of us, identify ourselves and not allow others to interfere. Do not ask, and do not judge.

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