When I came out I had a really supportive family. Me and my dad were just talking about my day and then all the sudden my dad asked me if I was gay. I think he got the idea because I was reading all these queer stories and like buying pride flags. When I told him he said, “Well, I’m proud of you.” And I felt really accepted. Soon after I came out to my siblings. It took some time for them to understand; everything can be very confusing especially at a young age. (F/she/they/Lesbian/gay)
Story #2596
When I came out we were at a family gathering, and my uncle then came up with the topic of love and asked me if I had a boyfriend yet. I just shook my head and told him and the rest of my family that I didn’t even want to have a boyfriend and that I was lesbian. My family was really supportive and my cousin (15M) even unexpectedly came out with me as bi. (F/17/Lesbian)
Story #2587
When I came out, it was to my grandmother first. We have a close relationship, but we don’t usually talk about very personal or emotional stuff. I think that’s why I chose to come out to her — regardless of her emotions, I knew she would probably say something pretty neutral and give me a pat on the back, which is exactly what I needed. Coming out to her gave me the confidence to just stop trying to hide it. I love her so much. (F/Lesbian)
Story #2579
When I came out, it was pretty unplanned. I went out for dinner with my mom and brother, and we were just talking while waiting for our food to arrive when somehow the topic of dating came up. I told them that boys are disgusting and I didn’t want a boyfriend, and then my mom asked if I wanted a girlfriend instead. I took a deep breath, and said yes, and told them I am lesbian. Hopefully I will come out to my dad soon but I have no idea what his reaction will be. Good luck to y’all closeted people( if you’re planning to come out)! (F/11/Lesbian)
Story #2573
When I came out, I was 18, and my parents just laughed and said they suspected it when I started dressing a bit masculine when I was 10. I’m loved and accepted by my friends and family. (F/24/Lesbian)
Story #2571
When I came out a year ago, I was with my girlfriend for 9 months. I love her. I’ve been feminine my whole life, so my mom didn’t really “expect” it. Anyways, I got pretty good reactions. My girlfriend did too, but everyone expected her to be gay since she presents more masculine. I am still active at church. I pray to god. I live life to the fullest. (F/12/Lesbian)
Story #2569
When I came out, I think I had known since I was around 14-15. I initially came out as ace, and now lesbian. I had a minor crush on one of my classmates – who I didn’t know was bi at the time – and one day at a sleepover, we were playing truth or dare with my friend group. And then the dreaded question came up: Do you like anyone? I took a deep breath, and told them I had a crush on [the girl] and that I was gay. Everyone was super supportive. It has been about 2 years since then, and I am forever grateful for my friends. We always insult each other jokingly and they have been there for me like family, even when my own parents weren’t. They asked me if I was planning to come out to my parents and I said no. My parents are super homophobic and transphobic. They are traditional and even if I was straight, they wouldn’t want me dating anyone not of my race (I’m South Indian btw). I am happy with my identity and the things I’ve learned about myself, and my parents can’t change that. (F/16/Lesbian/ace)
Story #2568
When I came out I first came out to my friends in my drama class. I was 11 and knew for a really long time that I was a lesbian because of how I had never gotten any crushes on boys but only girls. I also had a major crush on my friend since the beginning of the year. So they were talking about how many people they knew that were LGBTQ and they then asked me. I was super scared and so I just said “me”. And it turns out they were super accepting and one of them was gay too and the girl I have a crush on is bi. I haven’t come out to my parents yet but I have given lots of clues so idk how they don’t know yet? (F/12/LESBEAN🏳️🌈)
Story #2567
When I came out, I said, “Mom, I like girls.” She responded with, “Wait, you thought we didn’t already know?” Apparently, I accidentally came out a year earlier and didn’t even notice. I don’t even remember what it was that I said to out myself at that time, but it makes for an interesting story, I guess! (F/22/Lesbian)
Story #2561
When I came out to my friend group it was the biggest weight off my shoulders. I had known since I was 14 and I knew my family wouldn’t care but I was so scared to tell my friends because of stuff they said in the past and they all had boyfriends. I told them while on a ski trip with school at 17 and I had never been more scared in my life that they wouldn’t treat me the same but once I got the words out I received nothing but support and I’m so grateful for them. (F/18/Lesbian)