When I came out, I was in the car with my mom coming back from a long road trip. We were stuck in standstill traffic for about an hour and were just chatting until the topic of dating came up. I’d been going out with a guy for a few months into freshman year of high school and had been keeping it very secret as I was still figuring out my sexuality. My mom asked if we were dating since he and I had been hanging out a lot, to which I responded, “…Yes.” She asked if I was gay. “Yes.” She was cool with it and proud of me for confiding with her, and asked if I knew about my deceased uncle, who was also gay, to which I responded, “WHAT?!?” I probably would’ve been comfortable coming out if I had known that. Still gotta come out as nonconforming though. (Gender nonconforming/21/Gay)
Story #2385
When I came out I was 13. I texted my friend, telling him that I was gay, and I remember just hoping and praying for a good reaction because I was drowning in internalized homophobia and just wanted someone to tell me it was okay. Now I’m out to a total of 5 people and will be out to my parents soon. (Gender non-conforming woman/15/Gay/lesbian)
Story #1991
When I came out, or rather was outed, I was 19 and having the time of my life with my first girlfriend in Miami. I was in college at the time and basically skipped town to spend time with her, and I tweeted how happy I was with my girlfriend and sharing moments of our time together. My mom (who lived in California at the time) logged into my account and saw everything — a complete invasion of my privacy, violation of boundaries and trust. My family is super homophobic so of course I never told them about the happiness and love I’d found. She called me to tell me she knew where I was at, who I was with, and informed me she knew about my sexuality. The fact that she took that opportunity from me and contributed to years of shame and guilt was unforgivable tbh. Eight years have passed and I haven’t been in a relationship since. Finally at a point in my life where I couldn’t give a single solitary f*ck and will love and be with who I choose no matter who likes it. Not compromising my happiness and emotional / mental health for anybody any longer. (GNC/27/Lesbian)
Story #1687
When I came out, I came out to my BFF in 6th grade (last year) at an after-school party as bisexual. She was very supportive, in fact we’re even closer now. Now I drift between bisexual and pansexual; I’m also questioning my gender identity. I plan to come out to my other friends next week. I don’t plan to come out to my religious and homophobic parents anytime soon. (12/Bisexual/Pansexual/Gender Non-Conforming)