Don’t hide your pride
I’ve always been someone who strives to live their truth. I find it very difficult when I feel like I need to hide a part of myself for my protection — even in present-day London.
Since first coming out at age 15, I’ve learned that coming out is an ongoing process. Once someone has come to terms with their gender/sexual orientation identity and expression — be it at 10 years old or 80 — coming out doesn’t stop. You don’t just come out once in a big dramatic way and then everything is safe and sound.
Coming out is a constant process that queer (aka LGBT) people navigate every day — even for those who live their lives as open as possible. With every new person you meet, you will, consciously or subconsciously, be making a judgement on when and how you choose to trust them with their knowledge of your queer identity and expression.
As long as you’re comfortable, don’t hide your Pride — it’s not just for Pride season! If it’s safe for you to do so, I would recommend being as open as possible. As an openly queer person, you will be adding to the much-needed representation in our cis-hetero-normative society. ❤️
It’s important to remember those across the queer spectrum who have fought for the rights and freedoms we have today. However, we must also focus on the present and continue to support everyone in gaining their rights and freedoms in London and around the world.
