By Mia McCauley, Student Intern
During the month of October, people across the nation gather to commemorate LGBTQ+ History and National Coming Out Week through events and community gathering.
Here at UW–Madison, the Gender Sexuality Campus Center (GSCC) stands at the forefront of these celebrations—connecting students with resources, programs, and a network to share their experiences.
National Coming Out Day (NCOD), October 11, marks the anniversary of the 1987 LGBT March on Washington, a protest that condemned the U.S. government lack of response to the AIDS epidemic, ultimately leading to mass civil disobedience in the supreme court the following day.
Now, thirty-eight years later, NCOD represents how far the LGBTQ+ community has come in advocating for rights, uplifting voices and LGBTQ+ experiences, and also showcasing the work that is still left to be done.
Program Coordinator Sanders Weinberg, explains that this year, “in the midst of anti-trans rhetoric maintaining purchase on national platforms, we know that building community power is more important than ever. NCOD is a time to celebrate community and also work toward liberation, in large and small ways, from all roles and entry points.”
This year, nearly 50-75 students and staff joined the GSCC hosted activities to celebrate NCOD. Attendees came to make friendship bracelets, take pictures in front of the National Coming Out Door, join in their Keith Haring inspired art project, and enjoy complimentary cookies, coffee, and cupcakes.
Designed as a safe space for students, the GSCC is committed to helping students build a strong network of support across campus, and beyond.
“Each student is unique and thanks to our deep connections on campus and in the Madison community, we can connect students to many different resources tailored to their needs and experiences, ” said Weinberg. “Simply put, our doors are always open. We welcome students to chat with us about their experiences, chat with us, and get involved in future GSCC events and programs.”
Throughout October and indefinitely, LGBTQ+ identifying students are reminded that coming out is a deeply personal process. Many times people may choose to be out in one context or setting of their life, but not in another.
“It is important to affirm to people that the process and journey of coming out is independent of timelines, deadlines, or spans of time, ” said Weinberg. “There is no “wrong way” to come out.
For additional resources about NCOD or the GSCC visit the center’s homepage.