October 11 is National Coming Out Day, an LGBTQ+ holiday celebrated for the last 36 years. With renewed attacks on the LGBTQ+ community in recent years, events like National Coming Out Day are especially important. But what’s the history of this pivotal day in LGBTQ+ history?
Who started it?
It all started in 1988 with psychologist Dr. Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary, founder of the Lesbian Feminist Liberation organization. Taking a page out of the kill them with kindness book, Eichberg and O’Leary created the day as a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and a pushback against anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric.
The event was also created during a time of heightened anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment in the United States, including the HIV/AIDS crisis, which had disproportionately affected gay men and was met with governmental and societal neglect.
The first NCOD was observed across 18 states.
Why October 11?
Eichberg and O’Leary chose the day to coincide with the anniversary of the second National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.
That march was one of the largest gatherings of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies in history, drawing hundreds of thousands of people to the nation’s capital to demand civil rights and equality.
How did it evolve?
After a couple years, NCOD started garnering national attention and by 1990, it was celebrated across the country. This rapid growth was aided by the involvement of the Human Rights Campaign, which joined up with the effort in 1993, helping push the holiday to new heights. Famed gay artist Keith Haring lent his work to the now iconic logo for the day, using his signature pop art figure.
From 1999 to 2014, the HRC created themes for each NCOD like “Being Out Rocks” and “It’s a Family Affair.”
National Coming Out Day is still celebrated in the U.S. and some European countries like Portugal and the Netherlands.
The day remains a celebration of openness and authenticity, encouraging LGBTQ+ individuals to live their truths, while also serving as a reminder of the ongoing struggles for equality and acceptance
How can you celebrate?
There are many ways to celebrate and support National Coming Out Day, regardless of your identity:
- Support LGBTQ+ causes: Consider donating to organizations that work to advance LGBTQ+ rights and provide resources for the community.
- Engage with queer media: Read books, watch films, and follow queer media outlets that explore LGBTQ+ stories and perspectives.
- Volunteer: Join your local LGBTQ+ organization and offer your time to support their efforts.
- Be an ally: Simply being open to learning and supporting your LGBTQ+ friends and family in their journey can have a meaningful impact.