On October 11, BBH celebrated National Coming Out Day to raise awareness for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community and promote the beauty of being true to yourself. As part of the celebrations, the Pride Affinity Network shared an overview of the meaning of this day, explaining that it is a reminder of the ongoing struggles LGBTQ+ people face just for being themselves and, most importantly, emphasizes the joy and pride of being openly LGBTQ+. BBHers received helpful resources with suggestions for ways to celebrate—either as a member of the LGBTQ+ community deciding when and where to share this important part of their identity or as an ally supporting friends and family.
The stories shared by some of our colleagues helped to explain that coming out can be a constant process and emphasized how it is an integral part of reclaiming the right to live their identities publicly.
Over the last few years, my oldest child came out to me and to family and friends, first as bisexual, and later as transgender (male to female). I am so proud of my daughter for having the courage to live her life as her authentic self, and for showing the world who she truly is. I am also proud of family and friends, virtually all of whom have been very loving, accepting, and supportive of her.
It takes courage to come out and live your life openly and honestly; the most beautiful and empowering part of the whole process is that you realize you are not alone. You find others like you and meet allies who support and respect your resolve to live authentically whatever may come.
No matter the day, we all deserve the right to live genuinely. Race, ethnicity, language, religion, culture, gender expression, sexual orientation and gender identity should never be barriers to living full lives. At BBH, we encourage our people to speak up and show support by embracing our differences. When different people come together, we are all stronger.
