When I came out, it was first to my sister, and then later to my close friend group (including a neutral friend who just happened to be there at that moment). Today, a few months later, my sister convinced me to come out to my parents with a card that she and I made. It had a heart with the bisexual flag in it, and underneath it, it said, “Hi, I’m bisexual. Gotta go, so bi.” I never knew my coming out would include a pun. My parents were very supportive and I think my father was proud of our using a pun. (F/Bisexual)
Story #1832
When I came out, I was 13 and scared to death to discover I’m gay. I had a crush on my best friend and texted him about it late at night. Let’s just say, it’s been 2 years and we don’t talk anymore. I have yet to come out to my VERY religious parents, and brother. (M/15/Gay)
Story #1831
When I came out, I was devastated to see my dad ignore me. On the other hand, my mom reacted with joy and happiness; she accepts me for who I am. I wasn’t surprised that my friends and peers would support me — they were always supportive of me. Yet, I feel like I am slowly losing my dad, and, oddly enough, I am not afraid of that. I am not willing to sacrifice my happiness for anyone or anything. (M/18/Bisexual)
Story #1830
When I came out to my friend over the phone I said, “I like boys, and girls” to which she replied, “Oh my gosh same” and I did a double take. Coming out to my other friend was hard because first I actually needed to get her attention, then I said, “[Friend], I’m bi” and she said, “Wait, say that again” so I said it again and she was happy and jumping around, then I told her I was genderfluid. At another place I was talking with three or four people and one said, “I don’t think I know anyone who is bi” so I had to say, “Now you have!” I say that I’m bi and genderfluid because it is SO much easier to understand than saying that I might be this or that or both or something. Anyway, continue being your queer/ally self and show that closet who is boss. (NB/genderfluid/androgynous/gender is confusing/13/Biromantic/panromantic/demiromantic/akoiromantic/ace)
Story #1829
When I came out to my brother he was surprisingly supportive. He said no matter what, he’ll always have my back. Next step is to come to my religious Muslim parents. Don’t know when or if ever I’ll be able to come out to them. (M/27/Gay)
Story #1828
When I came out, I was 13. I told my friends first that I was queer and they were all fine with it because they are too. I told my parents in a letter and they were accepting, although they think it might just be a phase. Then I came out as transgender (FtM) and again, my friends were fine with it and immediately adapted to using my pronouns and name. However, my parents were not accepting and refuse to acknowledge my identity. It hurts, but I’m 14 now and I’ll be out of the house in 4 years anyways. (FtM/14/Transgender/queer)
Story #1827
When I came out it was to my freshman year college roommate. It was such a weight off my shoulders because he came out to me as bi first! He helped me build the courage to tell my family and all besides my dad accepted me and my mom is very supportive of me. I’m finally able to live freely and for those of you who are still closeted, stay strong and know that there are resources all around you! (M/20/Gay)
Story #1826
When I came out, it was yesterday. I FaceTime my best guy friend most nights, and a few nights ago, we were playing Truth or Dare over the phone. He asked which of my crushes had starred in my last dream, and I told him that he didn’t know them, but then I went on to say, “Ya, she was really pretty.” He then was like, “Wait, what?” and I told him to just drop it, but then last night he was like, “Hey, are you bi?” and now he knows. It was kinda funny because he said a lot of comments I’ve made in the past now make a lot more sense. 😀 (F/14/Bi-curious/queer)
Story #1825
When I came out, it took me nearly 20 minutes to get the words out after I told my mom that I needed to talk to her. Even though I knew she would be accepting, the words wouldn’t come out of my mouth and I turned bright red. I finally said, “I’m gay,” and she hugged me and said she loved me. She told my dad, who brought it up in the car one day and just said that he accepts me. I’m planning to tell my friends but I’m scared they’ll treat me differently and be weirded out if they know that I’m a lesbian. (F/15/Lesbian)
Story #1824
When I came out, it was completely unexpected. The week before, I had told myself that I wouldn’t necessarily come out—I really don’t enjoy nerve-wracking situations—but if I were asked about my sexuality, I would be honest with people. I was talking about throwing rainbow cookies in the air for fun, and someone asked if I was gay. I said yes, and it was a huge relief from the pressure and loneliness I had been feeling beforehand. Now I am out at school, and my parents could really care less what I do, other than that I am happy. To everyone out there nervous to come out, you are valid, and if the friend/parent/other person you are coming out to doesn’t accept you, we are all with you today and forever. (M/16/Gay)