When I came out I was outed at school. I was very feminine even though I was assigned male at birth, so a couple of bullies searched my backpack when I was in the bathroom and found my ‘female stash’, which was full of makeup and perfume and other womanly things. Those bullies took a picture and posted it all over their stories and everyone started calling me trans, and where I’m from, when the principal hears about a closeted child, it is mandatory for them to inform parents. My parents were angry and scolded me, saying I was confused and that gender dysphoria is fake and transgenderness is a sin and stuff like that. Now, I feel uncomfortable and insecure in my family and at school. (Trans [MtF]/14)
Story #2656
When I came out, I was 10 the first time. My mum didn’t believe me and I still have not come out to my dad (as he makes fun of gay/trans people). Second time I was 11 and started binding at my volleyball games because of the tight uniforms (do not recommend). My mum was mad and the whole way I got it was I gave her $50 for a $20 binder. She still doesn’t believe me and my sisters are very suspicious. (FtM/Gay)
Story #2655
When I came out, I was at the park with my best friend, her sister, and my siblings whom I have know for a long time. We were playing truth or dare and someone asked her something that was related to lgbtqia+ or something and she came out as bi. That night I messaged her and said, “You know how you came out earlier, well it my turn now.” Turns out we are both bi. (M/13/Bi)
Story #2654
When I came out at 16 in 2016, I had already known for over a decade that I was only sexually attracted to other men, ever since I was 5. Growing up in a Christian family made it incredibly tough, and I worried about how they would react. But through adversity, I learned the importance of self-love and acceptance. To others going through similar challenges with religious family members, know that you are not alone, and as time passes, it will become easier. Embracing who I truly am has given me the strength to keep going, and I now know that I can make it through, no matter the challenges ahead. (M/24/Gay)
Story #2653
When I came out as trans and bi, I was 10. My dad told me that “it’s a phase.” My mom was fairly supportive. My dad is a bit antsy about the subject and my mom supports me as best as she can; she even referred to me with my preferred pronouns, which felt amazing. I just got my binder and now I feel incredible. (Transgender FtM/14/Bisexual)
Story #2652
When I came out, I only told friends I could trust. When I first told my parents I was questioning my sexuality, they were supportive, but said that I was “too young to know for sure” and that it was probably “just a phase.” Over the years, I realized that I liked both boys and girls, so I’ve since accepted my bisexual identity. I’ve told friends who I can trust, and they have all been really supportive. Now, I’m proud of who I am, and don’t feel the need to hide anymore. (F/13/Bisexual)
Story #2651
When I came out, my parents had always been a little passive aggressive about trans or lgbtq people in general. I came out a total of 3 times, and hundreds of signals I was trans since the age of 8. They are (probably pretending) still clueless. I pass well and I have been stealth in my school for the past 2 years. (FtM/15)
Story #2650
When I came out to my parents as pansexual I was 9, and my parents were very supportive, even if they did act like it was a phase. When I was 11 I came out as a lesbian, because I had never really had crushes on men, I just saw them as friends. My friends were all very supportive and I couldn’t be more lucky with the way that things turned out. I am coming out to my mom’s side of the family this weekend, and I hope it goes well. Good luck to anyone who is/is thinking about coming out. (F/12/Lesbian)
Story #2649
When I came out, I didn’t know about the LGBTQIA+ at all. I just told my parents, “I want to be a boy” and “I’m a boy”. They didn’t believe me at first, but started to realize I actually meant it when I told my friends at school in grade 2 and 3. They were a bit confused but really supportive from grade 4 and on, when I did a presentation about it in my class. My life is going pretty great, regardless of my hated middle name and nickname, and I run a Pride Club at my school. (M/12/Demiromantic/pansexual/FtM trans)
Story #2648
When I came out, my parents weren’t sure if it was a joke. In eighth grade, my friends and I made a pact to all come out with the classic “I’m straight, April fools!” to parents, and I sent the text right before two long hours of swim practice. My dad was silent the car ride home, until he asked if I was serious about my text. He said, “So, are you gay?” and I said “Kinda?” and after clarifying to my mom she said, “Okay” and that was that — I guess that was all I could ask for. The subject will never not be awkward; they will never not make subtly homophobic comments; it will take a lot for me to feel comfortable in my sexuality around my family. Still, I can be grateful. (F/16)