When National Coming Out Day was established in 1988, (scheduled for October 11 in 2022), the thought was that the more visible the LGBTQ community is, the more acceptance it will receive from the community at large. In the same vein, former House Representative from Massachusetts, Barney Frank, once said, “If you are not at the table, you are probably on the menu!”.
Since then, there have been great advances and some setbacks, but overall the LGBTQ community has continued to gain visibility and acceptance. Just to name a few, Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper have both welcomed sons via surrogacy. CNN Host & Anchor, Don Lemon, announced his engagement and marriage to his long-time partner. Dr. Rachel Levine stepped into the spotlight during the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic as Pennsylvania’s Health Secretary. Her intelligence, grace and guidance brought her national attention during this frightening and trying time, so much so, that President Biden named her as the United States Assistant Secretary of Health in March of 2021. The first transgender woman to serve in a federal position of such stature.
Pete Buttigieg ran an unexpectedly competitive Presidential bid as an openly gay married man. So impressive that President Biden named him Secretary of Transportation. Soon thereafter, he and his Husband, Chasten, welcomed twins into their family.
Krysten Sinema, an openly bi-woman, successfully wins John McCain’s vacant House seat for the State of Arizona. Most recently, Amy Schneider has garnered attention as the first transgender woman to qualify for the Tournament of Champions on Jeopardy! She is the first ever woman to gather more than one million dollars during regular season play. A software developer, originally from Ohio, she has captivated the game show’s audiences and won a special part in history and our hearts. Way to go Amy!
All of these individuals and countless more continue to pave the way toward equality and acceptance for the LGBTQ community. We are in their debt and owe them our respect and thanks! Live your best life proudly!