He made it perfectly clear, I was a fool, probably queer...

[allfireburns]

"I don't understand why there has to be a National Coming Out Day, because no one ever feels the need to come out as straight..."

And that is exactly why there has to be.

Because the majority of the world assumes that people are straight by default.

Because straight people never do have to come out, because everyone already "knows" they are.

Because so many of my friends are forced to live with these assumptions because their family will judge them or kick them out, or because they would face discrimination at their jobs, possibly lose their jobs...

No one has to announce "Hey, I'm a member of a privileged class." Because everyone already assumes that.

We come out to set aside people's assumptions. To remind them, hey, we exist, and we deserve some place in your world view. We're you're daughters, your sons, your sisters, brothers, friends and neighbors. Fucking notice us.

Comments

[enterincolor.livejournal.com]

"I don't understand why there has to be a National Coming Out Day, because no one ever feels the need to come out as straight..."
And that is exactly why there has to be.

No, that's why we need to work to the point where there DOESN'T have to be, and it's NOT assumed that you're straight, but as long as there IS Pride and Coming Out Day and GLBT History Month and so on, we will never be seen as Just The Same As Everyone Else. Because we're setting OURSELVES apart.

[darksunlight.livejournal.com]

I'm almost positive my children will come out as straight, if only to piss mom and dad off.

[emilystarr1.livejournal.com]

Thank you. You said all that so much better than I could have. (Though I'll be trying to say it in my rambly way anyway. :p) I practically cheered when I read this. I did give a happy little geeky clap, I admit. ♥

Also, hope you're feeling better. *hugs*

[trekkiepirate.livejournal.com]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Belated, I know, so sue me, honeybear. I tried calling, but my phone is being a bitch. *gives virtu-cake to make up for it*

Also, brilliant post, loved it very much. Mine was boring in comparision...stop smirking and preening.