Coming out: the courage to be yourself in a judgemental world
- Loredana Denicola
- May 7
- 3 min read
Updated: May 7
In a world that constantly speaks of freedom, we often forget how difficult it can be for some people to simply be themselves.
For many LGBTQIA+ individuals, coming out is not just a statement. It is an act of truth, of courage, of survival. It means stepping out of an invisible prison made of silence, fear, and the expectations of others. It's saying “this is who I am,” even when you know it might not be accepted, understood, or even respected.
The term “coming out” originates from the phrase “coming out of the closet,” a symbolic place where a vital part of yourself is hidden. It means revealing your sexual orientation or gender identity, sharing who you truly are with others in the hope of being accepted and loved without conditions.
But for many, especially young people, the hardest part is coming out to family.
Revealing yourself to your parents can feel like climbing a mountain.
The fear of disappointing, hurting, or even losing the love of those closest to you is so strong that many stay silent for years.
In some families, particularly where rigid cultural or religious beliefs dominate, the reaction to coming out may be one of denial, confusion, or outright rejection.Yet often, behind those reactions, there is no cruelty, just ignorance, fear, or a struggle to understand what falls outside familiar norms.
This is why it is essential to talk, to explain, to inform.
Coming out is not only a personal matter: it’s a social one.
We live in a society that continues to promote a single model of family, love, and “normality.”Anything that strays from that model is still too often marginalised, mocked, or ignored. Changing this culture means educating about emotions, respect for differences, and active listening.
Every coming out is a cry for love:“Will you still accept me?”“Will you still love me?”The answer we receive can shape our lives deeply, either empowering us or breaking us.
In an era where LGBTQIA+ rights are still under threat, defending them is not just a political act, it’s a human obligation.
Defending the right to live openly, to love freely, and to be yourself without fear.
Coming out shouldn’t have to be an act of bravery, but until we live in a truly welcoming world, those who find the courage to do so deserve respect, protection, and a voice.
If you are LGBTQIA+ and considering coming out, know that you are not alone.
There are safe spaces, communities, organisations, and people who understand and will stand with you.There is no right moment, the right time is when you feel ready.
And if you’re a parent, teacher, or friend, remember:you don’t have to understand everything straight away, but you can choose to love straight away.
You can say:“I’m here. I respect you. I care.”
And sometimes, that’s enough to change everything.
"Remember: being ourselves is never a mistake; it is an act of truth.
Every step towards authenticity is an act of light, even when the path is difficult.
We are not alone, we are not wrong, and the world needs exactly who we are.
To those struggling to find the courage to come out, we say: our voices matter, our hearts deserve love, and our being has value just as it is. And to those who listen, support, or welcome: our openness can be the strength that saves a life.
Together, we can build a world where no one should ever have to wonder if being themselves will be accepted.
Until then, let us continue to choose empathy, respect, and love. Always."
by Loredana Denicola
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