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"My Out and About"
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Prime Time Isn't Necessarily Our Reality
By Jim Ver Steeg, Pride Center Director
It seems like lately you can’t turn on the television or read the newspaper without seeing something gay-themed. For years the LGBT equality movement has strived for just that, to take us out of the shadows and show the world our fundamental humanity.
But for many, reality looks much different. Even with all this prime-time popularity, there remain many who still struggle to leadand honest lives outside the safety of the gay niche. Understandably, they remain closeted fearing that if they come out as LGBT, they could put in jeopardy connections to family, career and faith. So while some take on the very public fight for marriage equality, others face a much more personal challenge.
I learned long ago that the coming out process is just that, a process. Even now, fifteen years after the first time I was able to say “I’m gay,” I still find myself facing situations that challenge my identity. However, had it not been for taking the first step, I would still be caught in the same cycle of lying to keep people close to me, while pushing them away for fear that they’ll find me out.
Finally, we have better ways to come out. If you’re in the process or would like to take the first step, we invite you to participate in our Coming Out Support Group. Who knows, this may be the perfect chance for you to channel your energies in a whole new direction.
If you would like more information about the Coming Out Group, please call the Pride Center at , e-mail ComingOut or register online.
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