This BAE discussion, on Coming Out, happened on the 11th of Octopus during LGBTQ+ Ally Week, in the Guided Discussions Room (teen). It was led by myself and the lovely ENO! Look below to find the insights shared over the course of this discussion laid out in pretty colours :P ♥

Icebreaker: What is one fear you have faced in your life and what is the result?

This was a wildly brave bunch, there were people jumping from trees (and getting hurt xD) and finding friendship despite crippling Social Anxiety. ♥

Also, ya know, Arachnophobia and spider murders, obviously xD I'm afraid of spiders, today there was a small one in my room and my mum was like "help yourself" so I just killed it lol

1) What does the term Coming Out mean?

Basically, it means publicly sharing your sexual/gender/romantic identity, but even more importantly, many agreed it means Being yourself and sharing that with someone you trust. ♥

2) Is it important to come out? Why or why not?

There was quite a range of answers for this one, all of which were rather thoughtful. ♥

☆ Yes, its important to acknowledge who we are, and come out to ourselves! It gives you a sense of self-acceptance.

☆ It can be important, but its even more important to make sure you are safe when coming out to others.

☆ You shouldnt have to, because people shouldnt be assuming you are straight. You are you, and your sexuality/gender shouldnt change anything.

3) Who should someone come out to? Are there certain more important people to come out to, such as parents, family or close friends?

The most important person to come out to is yourself but after, if you feel like it, you can come out to the people you trust and matter to you- those whom you know will have your back!

4) What are some different ways people can come out? What are the benefits and negatives of these methods?

☆ Write a note to them- gives them time to figure things out and not act rashly or hurtfully.

☆ You could arrange an event (like a meal) with the people youd like to come out to, and tell them all at once.

☆ Shout it out over the PA system - this human knows the deal :P

☆ Some cons: People might not accept it, and sometimes it might lead to you being abused. People may treat you differently.

☆ Some Pros: You have support through your journey.

5) When should someone come out?

☆ When they feel comfortable and ready- this is different for different people, we shouldnt pressure anyone!

☆ It is crucial that the person is safe, only come out if you know you will be safe.

6) Is there ever a time when someone should NOT come out? Give an example!

☆ When you are surrounded by homophobes- even if they are family or friends.

☆ When it is unsafe to do so, like if its illegal in your country, to avoid criminal prosecution

A lovely point put forth by someone amazeballs- Id like to say if someone, it doesnt mean theyre homophobic. I am religious, and I accept all LGBTQ+ people! They are human too, and I love them all ♥

7) What are the challenges associated with coming out? How can we face these challenges?

☆ Homophobia, a distinct lack of acceptance

☆ Ingrained societal norms make it hard to even accept ourselves, much less imagine someone else might accept you.

☆ Fear that people might think youre not normal psshh what is normal anyway? XD <3

Facing The Challenges

☆ You just take the risk- not everyone might like you but that is expected no matter what.

☆ Acknowledging who we are, and finding support in an accepting space can help too! Be strong and sure about your decisions

☆ I like to tell myself people somewhere will accept me, I just have to find them

8) What are some possible benefits of coming out?

✿ Its like a weight being lifted off your shoulders! ✿ You dont have to feel like youre hiding or faking anything anymore ✿ You can be who you are ✿ Be proud of yourself and think about the huge step youve taken! ✿

9) How do we deal with unaccepting people?

☆ We ignore them and block them out

☆ Those who mind dont matter and those who matter dont mind (Hey we all know Seuss is a wise chap. Always trust Seuss xD)

☆ They may not accept you but that doesn't mean you can't accept them. Say 'I'm sorry you feel that way but you can't change who I am.' and just be you.

☆ Killing it with kindness is the ultimate badassery.

10) What advice would you give to someone thinking of coming out?

☆ Tell those you trust first, and dont worry about unaccepting people- your sexuality isnt here to please others.

☆ Do it in a safe place.

☆ Keep being you.

Some profound thoughts I cant help but include xD

♛ Amazeabaze - this word has been endorsed by this discussion and basically, oxford get on it already!

♛ Everyone is a unicorn

♛ Normal is overrated. Lets all be weirdos together :p

♛ I just blew up a glass bowl in the microwave guys

Thank you everyone for participating in this FABBITY discussion, we adored it so much (Top 10 Discussions :P)! Do add on below if you have more insight, answers and love to provide on these discussion questions! :D <3

Participants @Ila @Isthisreallylife @KolateakYT @SapereAude @unassumingPerson3059 @TheLastGoodbye @unassumingPerson3059 @AllyCat01 @fairmindedBunny6594 @rosor @canadagranger7 @FragmentOfYourDefinition7 @LifeAndOtherStupidThings @Rattlehead @SimonTheGr8 @niceVillage8008 @Rosepetal999 @WarmChocolateMug @JustAron01 @CreepyRwan @glowingpeace18339 @NewRomantic677 @amazingrea