11/10/2026
What is "coming out"?
It is the process by which someone from the LGBTQ+ community chooses to share their authentic self with new people.
National Coming Out Day is observed annually on October 11th. It was first established 1988, founded by Robert Eichberg and Jean O'Leary, to commemorate the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Le***an and Gay Rights, where roughly 500,000 people marched for LGBTQ+ equality. Next year will be the 40th anniversary of this event.
The purpose of this day is to promote LGBTQ+ visibility, encourage open and honest dialogue, and support individuals coming out or living authentically as le***an, gay, bisexual, transgender, q***r, or related identities.
National Coming out day is grounded in the idea that homophobia and stigma thrive in silence, and that personal connections with friends, family, chosen family, carers and colleagues helps break down stereotypes and build empathy - in time this will be better for everyone.
There are no hard and fast rules about coming out, and it is entirely unique and personal for everyone.
Coming out should be on your own timeline, and only if you feel safe to do so - your safety, well-being and personal readiness always come first - there is no rush.
If you, or someone you know might need some support, inspiration, or simply want to learn more about coming out, you can find some excellent resources via
The Proud Trust
https://www.theproudtrust.org/trusted-adults/coming-out/
Stonewall UK
https://www.stonewall.org.uk/young-futures/lgbtq-support/coming-out
Image credit: Divya Agrawal
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