FAQs
What does it mean to “come out”?
Coming out is the process in which a person first acknowledges, accepts and appreciates his or her sexual orientation or gender identity and begins to share that with others.
Should I come out? How will people react?
Different people will react differently. Some people may not be supportive, which can make the coming out process very difficult.
What does it mean to be transgender? Are all transgender people gay?
Transgender is a term describing a broad range of people who experience and/or express their gender differently from what most people expect. It is an umbrella term that includes people who are transsexual, cross-dressers or otherwise gender non-conforming.
What is a straight supporter? How do I come out as a straight ally?
A straight supporter or straight ally is someone who supports and honors sexual diversity, acts accordingly to challenge homophobic remarks or behaviors and explores and understands these forms of bias within him- or herself.
What is the difference between gay and bisexual?
Someone who identifies as bisexual is emotionally, romantically, sexually and relationally attracted to both men and women, though not necessarily simultaneously; a bisexual person may not be equally attracted to both sexes, and the degree of attraction may vary as sexual identity develops over time.
How can I come out as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or same-gender loving, while also tending to who I am as African American, Asian Pacific American, and Hispanic or Latino/a?
Many people of color face unique challenges when they come out as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.
I came out to my family and friends, but should I come out at work?
Being open at work can be a daunting challenge, but it can also relieve the daily stress of hiding who you are. At the same time, however, no one wants to put their job security or opportunity for advancement in jeopardy.
Should I come out to my doctor?
One of the keys to good healthcare is being open with your healthcare provider. Doctors, nurses, physician assistants, psychotherapists and other professionals treating you need to know about your sexual orientation and gender identity to give the best care possible.
How can I find LGBT-friendly places of employment?
HRC's Workplace Project offers many tools to narrow down your job search.
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