On October 11, National Coming Out Day will promote the concept that homophobia flourishes in quiet and continue to increase awareness for members of the LGBTQ+ community. A lot of LGBTQ+ individuals will ‘come out’ (a word derived from the phrase ‘coming out of the closet’) to friends or family on this day, which is a huge milestone!

Beyond this, the history of the LGBTQ+ movement is a source of inspiration since it recognizes its leaders and emphasizes the importance of the personal in politics. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the spirit of liberation; many people do this by wearing pins or waving banners of LGBTQ+ organizations.

When Is National Coming Out Day 2022?

Every year on October 11th, people all around the world observe and celebrate National Coming Out Day. The inaugural observance took place in 1988, and by 1990, all 50 states were participating. Participants often adorn their clothes with pride symbols, pink triangles, or display rainbow flags in their homes or in public spaces. NCOD is also recognized in Ireland Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom.

History Of National Coming Out Day

The one march that prompted National Coming Out Day (NCOD) was on October 11th, 1987 – the March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights drew over 500,000 participants, creating momentum that persisted for four months after the march’s conclusion. This impacted the LGBTQ+ community in substantial ways and forced many people around the world to pay attention to the plight and dilemmas of the community. Over 100 LGBTQ+ people who identified during this time agreed to establish a national day to honor coming out, which started on the first year of their historical march.

The Human Rights Campaign has designated a theme for every National Coming Out Day over the past 15 years; the 2014 and 2013 themes were both ‘Coming Out Still Matters’, and the first theme (1999) was ‘Come Out to Congress’. Each National Coming Out Day has likewise employed a separate spokesperson to draw attention to the movement. In the 1990s, prominent figures included Candace Gingrich, the half-sister of Newt Gingrich, and Frasier star Dan Butler. Today, the day draws more celebrities and prominent people than ever before, normalizing those that live in the queer community. 

Numerous famous people and celebrities have come out as LGBTQ+ since the movement’s start, and each year they send out words of encouragement and hope to those still hiding their identities. Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon and actor and supporter Sara Ramirez are two notable celebrities who tweeted in favor of National Coming Out Day in 2019. With friends and family attending, the event intends to continue its efforts to combat homophobia and hatred.

How Will You Get Involved?

How are you celebrating National Coming Out Day? Do you have a coming out story you’d like to share? Let HomoCulture know in the comments section below.