When I came out, I basically tried to say as little as possible. My best friend is from an anti-lgbt religion, and while I knew she would be happy for me, after about an hour of “Are you sure?” and trying to explain that yes, I liked guys, I gave up trying and left it at “I have a girlfriend now.” She was super sweet, even though she seemed confused by the concept of bisexuality, and very supportive. I ended up coming out to my parents with just the girlfriend part as well because I was worried that my mom would keep trying to get me a boyfriend (and they are also religious). I still feel weird about it because I basically just let them all assume that I’m a lesbian, even though I’m really careful not to call myself one because I’m not “fully gay” and don’t even label myself gay because of it… (F/22/Bisexual)
Story #1719
When I came out it was to my friends and little brother. It was Christmas evening and we had just finished hanging out and exchanging gifts, and as they were leaving they were talking about girls or something and then one of them asked if I was straight. I looked at them blankly, not knowing what to say, but I knew I couldn’t say yes ’cause it would be obvious I was unsure or lying. Then I said, “I guess I’m coming out now.” They were all surprised but really accepting. They acted like they didn’t care but in a good way. I was really happy that night and fell asleep with a smile on my face. But the best part is that I don’t have to lie or be uncomfortable when they ask if I like this girl or if I think this girl is cute or something. (M/19/Gay)
Story #1718
When I came out it was to a theatre group chat. I basically said, “Guys, I found Narnia!” And someone asked “Where?” And so I said, “In the closet. Surprise, I’m gay!” And everyone was really accepting! Still haven’t told my family though, haha. (M/15/Gay)
Story #1717
When I came out I was 14 in 7th grade and I came out to my best friend. My parents get hints here and there, so I figure they know but it’s kinda hard to tell my dad. My mom and everyone else in my family knows but my dad is another story. He is traditional; he only believes in man and woman, but I like girls, have since I was a baby, and I’m proud of who I am and who I’ve become after last year. I just hope I can find someone to love me for me, especially my family. (F/15/Lesbian)
Story #1716
When I came out on the 22nd to my parents, they didn’t accept that I was gay. They blamed it on “hormones” and that I’m “only 15.” It really made me sad and is still hurting me; living a lie and hating myself is not fun. I wish they were more accepting. [I’ve told a friend at school, a cousin, a sibling, and 2 other people irl] (M/15/Gay)
Story #1715
When I came out I was at camp and realized I liked a girl. I sent my friend a letter about her. When I got back I was really nervous to see her reaction. Thankfully she accepted me and made me feel more certain about myself. (F/12/Bi)
Story #1713
When I came out it was more of a split-second decision than anything. I mentioned to my friends that I had a crush, and they asked the gender. I said, “I’m not assuming their gender.” They said, jokingly, “Oh, she’s pans.” And I said, without thinking, “No, I’m bi.” And then my friend across the table says, “Ha, I’m bi too.” (15/Bisexual)
Story #1714
When I came out, we were playing truth or dare at lunch and one girl asked me who I liked. I liked a girl, and I was very hesitant to tell her because we weren’t very close and I was afraid she’d have a negative reaction. Eventually, I told her that it wasn’t a guy. She replied with, “Awww, that’s sweet.” She was really supportive about it, and promised not to tell anyone. (F/13/Bi)
Story #1712
When I came out it was to all of my friends first at the school I am currently going to, and all of them were OK with it. But there was one problem: One of them was threatening to tell my parents because she didn’t understand the possible dangers to coming out. At the end of the year I switched schools before she could out me. Getting to my new school was fun because I found other old friends who also had “unusual” identities or sexualities and there is even a gay straight alliance club aka GSA. (Non-binary/13/Panromantic)
Story #1711
When I came out it was not planned. But one night at a party a good friend of mine came to me and wanted to speak with me about something. The reason was that she thought that I had flirted with her boyfriend too much at the last parties we were together. I started laughing and told her that it was just because we were really good friends and she can be sure that it will not happen any time in the future that I am flirting with any boyfriend because I love girls. (F/19/Lesbian)