Today is National Coming Out Day. Activities will be taking place at UMKC and across the country to recognize this important day. Around the world, conversations will be taking place concerning LGBTQ issues. Additionally, people are encouraged to take that “next step” towards living openly and powerfully, as their genuine selves – something many of us take for granted. For many LGBTQ individuals, this isn’t easy. Fearing persecution, harsh judgment, and rejection from family, friends, and co-workers, millions of people live closeted lives everday. Living socially closeted often creates feelings of isolation, loneliness, and also paranoia. Physical feelings of claustrophobia and stress also trouble people living closeted lives. Many of us may know someone who is thinking about coming out but may be afraid of the repercussions. What we can do as friends, loved ones, and allies of these individuals is listen and support them without judgment. Resources are available to students at UMKC that provide support when taking the “next step.” Safe Spaces are available across campus, including the Women’s Center, where students can feel secure, supported, and free from judgment.
