SECTION TWO
A Deeper Script for Coming Out Conversations
Tips Before Coming Out
Thinking about how to respond to various scenarios can help you feel less stressed before, during, and after coming out to someone.
Ideas on Starting the Conversation
Coming out can be a daunting experience, even when it's exciting, but it's important to express yourself honestly when you are ready. Here are some things you might consider saying to your family:
- "Mom/Dad/Grandma/Grandpa, there's something important I want to share with you. I've realized that I'm [insert sexual orientation or gender identity]. I hope you can accept me for who I am."
- "I've been feeling this way for a while, and I wanted to talk to you about it. I'm [insert sexual orientation or gender identity]. I hope you can support me through this journey."
- "I love you, and I want to be open with you about who I am. I've come to understand that I'm [insert sexual orientation or gender identity]. Can we talk about this together?"
- "I've been struggling with something, and I think it's time I told you. I'm [insert sexual orientation or gender identity]. I hope you can still love and accept me."
- "I've been keeping something inside for a long time, and it's been really hard for me. I'm [insert sexual orientation or gender identity]. I hope you can listen and understand."
- "I know this might come as a surprise, but I've realized I'm [insert sexual orientation or gender identity]. I hope we can talk about it and support each other."
- "I've been afraid to tell you this, but I need to be honest. I'm [insert sexual orientation or gender identity]. Can we talk about what this means for our family?"
Encouraging open communication and expressing feelings of love and vulnerability can help facilitate understanding and acceptance from parents and caregivers.
Coming out doesn't always go well, however. Use the link below to read powerful words by Naomi Kanakia, a trans author, speaking to the balance needed in sharing hopeful stories and perspectives while also being real about the challenges of coming out and living as a trans teen.
Being trans isn't all "queer joy," a guest post by Naomi KanakiaDid You Know?
that an LGBTQ+ icon helped invent the technology behind Wi-Fi? Hedy Lamarr, a glamorous Hollywood actress of the 1930s and 40s, and a queer woman, was also a brilliant inventor. During World War II, she co-created a "frequency-hopping" system designed to prevent enemy forces from jamming radio signals. Even though it wasn't fully recognized at the time, her invention eventually became a key part of the wireless technology we use today, like Bluetooth, GPS, and Wi-Fi. So next time you're scrolling your phone or streaming music, you can thank a pioneering queer woman for making it possible!
