When I came out it wasn’t really a big thing. My classmate had been talking in chorus class about how pride month represented her. I came up to her the next day and asked her if she identified as lesbian. She said yes, then I told her I thought I might be lesbian too. She just hugged me. It was the best feeling. (F/12/Lesbian)
Story #2141
When I came out to a close friend, she seemed pretty supportive, but something seemed a bit off. Since then, every single time the idea of celebrity crushes or something is brought up, she always asks about mine, and always assumes that it’s a guy. Because of this I keep having to come out to her. It feels so invalidating. (F/16/Lesbian)
Story #2135
When I came out to my parents I had always said that I was a bisexual. I realized that I was actually gay though so I re-came out. From then on I had built up an understanding of sexuality and gender and I have come to terms with my sexuality and acceptance within my community. Basically I’m hella gay. All my friends are accepting and I’ve even found myself a girlfriend 😊. I am very comfortable and open about my sexuality and don’t mind who the hell knows. I have yet to tell my extended family and I’m not sure they really need to know until I’m in a serious relationship/married. (F/Lesbian)
Story #2132
When I came out last year I was 14 and thought I was bi. But recently I realized I am a lesbian as society had made me want to be with a man even if I didn’t want to be. I’m now more comfortable within myself then I’ve ever been and I’m starting to come out again; however, I’m not planning on telling my parents I’m gay as they know I’m bi. (F/15/Lesbian)
Story #2127
When I came out, I was 14 and my friends were all hanging out in the basement. One suggested we play truth or dare and somehow we all decided to say our sexuality out loud. My friends wanted me to be the first one, and after a lot of freaking out I said I was a lesbian. Turns out only 1 out of the 8 of us is straight! Still waiting to tell my parents. (F/16/Lesbian)
Story #2119
When I came out to my friends I felt kinda scared. I had already come out to my (now) girlfriend as bi and she came out to me as well as bi (I am now a lesbian). Most of my friends also are LGBTQ+ and or allies. We all basically became “super LGBTQ+” and met quite a few more queer friends. We now consist of a lesbian (me), 4 bisexuals, 3 trans folk, a pansexual, and about 10 allies. I feel very accepted and am very happy that we are all friends. (F/12/Lesbian)
Story #2118
When I came out, it was to my mom. We were having a late-night heart-to-heart, and I kept thinking that there wasn’t going to be a better time than this. When I told her, I had her guess, and she guessed that it had something to do with me not knowing whether I liked guys or girls. I came out, and then started crying. I was so relieved, because I hated lying. She was super supportive, although she did say it might be a phase. Good luck, all! (F/14/Lesbian)
Story #2115
When I came out to my mum I was 13 and told her I had a girlfriend. Her reaction was nothing and just said “okay” and left. Two years later I’m single, non-binary, and a lesbian and my mum doesn’t like that I want to change my name and don’t want a gender. My auntie on the other hand is a fellow lesbian and she supports me. My father, well, I have no idea what he thinks. (Non-binary/14)
Story #2114
When I came out my mum was shocked. She was not accepting at first, but she’s gradually changed. Her first reaction was that she ran away into another room and cried her eyes out. I was shattered, and I hid in the closet for four years. I moved out, and I don’t speak to her very much anymore, but I’m fine with that. I have my wonderful chosen family with me, and I know that if you are struggling with this, it will all work out. Proud of you 🌈❤️ (Demigirl/19/Lesbian)
Story #2112
When I came out to my mom, I was already out to my friends who were all nothing but kind and supportive. I expected for my mom to be accepting as well, but she wasn’t. After I told her, she went on a walk in a huff, and I called my best friend, telling her what happened between sobs. She dropped everything and picked me up, got me Starbucks, and hugged me while I cried. Even though my mom’s reaction wasn’t what I hoped it would be, my dad reacted positively, and I have amazing friends that are my chosen family. (F/16/Lesbian)