Free GLBTQ by Kelly Huegel Page A

ever seem like bullying and harassment will never end? It’s natural to have this fear, but life does get better. If you’d like some proof, check out this website to watch videos from GLBTQ people and supporters offering perspective and encouragement.
    Stop Bullying Now
    stopbullying.gov/kids
    A project of the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration, Stop Bullying Now is a resource designed to help young people end bullying. The site includes an ask-the-expert section, tips, video features, and specific information on cyberbullying.
    American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
    (212) 549-2500 • aclu.org
    The ACLU works in the courts to defend civil liberties for all people, including those who are GLBTQ. It has an extensive track record of advocating for GLBTQ rights.

Chapter 3
Coming Out
We’re here. We’re queer. Get used to it.

    Stonewall
    In June of 1969, a group of GLBTQ people stood up to police harassment at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. This event is widely viewed as the start of an organized gay rights movement in the United States. Commemorations of the Stonewall riots eventually turned into the GLBTQ pride celebrations that take place across the country every June. The event has been memorialized in books and even a movie.
    Throughout history, GLBTQ people have often felt the need to hide who they are to avoid harassment and discrimination. However, a gradual shift in society’s attitudes toward GLBTQ people has been occurring. This shift, combined with turning-point events like the 1969 Stonewall riots, has helped create an atmosphere where more people feel comfortable coming out. Many GLBTQ people used to hide their identities, but today, more and more are open about who they are.
    On one level, coming out is very simple. It’s nothing more than being open with family, friends, and others about identifying as GLBTQ. On another level, coming out isn’t so simple. It can expose you to everything from awkward social situations, such as someone trying to fix you up with the only other queer person he knows, to prejudice and harassment.
    Been There:
    â€œAs a freshman in college I came out to a friend of mine. At first, I thought it might be a big mistake because she was the most popular freshman on campus. But I thought that since she trusted me with her deepest secrets, then I could trust her with mine. When I told her she said, ‘Wow, that’s cool. You know, I didn’t want to ask but. . . .’ That was the beginning of our friendship on a whole new level.”
—Sasha, 20
    The decision to come out is a significant one, especially when you’re a teen. Some teens who come out are harassed and experience violence at home or at school. Some teens are kicked out of the house or are forced to run away. These things don’t happen to everyone, but it’s important to seriously consider your safety and well-being before coming out.
    But coming out also has many positive aspects. You can live your life openly and meet other GLBTQ people. Many GLBTQ teens say being out feels liberating. It can be very empowering to be honest about who you are. American Idol finalist Adam Lambert spoke publicly about the relief he felt after coming out in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine. He initially tried to hide that he was gay because he feared it would hurt his chances of winning American Idol.
    The purpose of this chapter is not to tell you whether or not you should come out—it’s to help you decide what’s right for you. Even if you don’t feel like you have a lot of control over your life, you are the only person who can ultimately decide how to live it. That includes making decisions about how out you want to be. If you do decide to come out, this chapter will give you some advice on how best to do it.
What Is Coming Out All About?
    As you learn more about the GLBTQ community, you’ll find that coming out is a very meaningful