October 11 – National Coming Out Day (NCOD)
Post compiled by Dr Obren Amiesimaka, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech. Thanks to our contributors for sharing their stories: Shana, Reiner, Vale Valentine and four other students and staff.
Coming out is a pivotal moment in the lives of 2SLGBTQIA+ folx. This has been celebrated every year on October 11 – National Coming Out Day (NCOD) – for over three decades now. In Canada and globally, on NCOD, everyone is welcome to honour all who have come out, encourage those on the path of coming out and support folx who have not yet come out. NCOD makes the important statement that 2SLGBTQIA+ folx have the right and freedom to live fully, truly, openly and confidently, at all times and in all places.
We have seven contributing voices speaking this year about coming out.
Meaning in Coming Out
Whether coming out to the entire world, select trusted people or just oneself, coming out is really meaningful. Coming out means being true to yourself; loving & accepting yourself completely without hiding. It means being vulnerable in showing the world who you truly are and who you love. It is an external expression of self-assurance. Coming out allows for forming a deep understanding and appreciation of oneself. It means letting go of shame and brings an end to the burden of secrecy. It enables one to be a source of safety and inspiration to others who may not feel safe enough to come out themselves. Coming out means authenticity, honesty and hope!
Coming out brings changes for the better
Coming out brought plenty of good changes for our contributors. First was freedom! Freedom to live the truth of being 2SLGBTQIA+; the liberation, openness and uninhibited ability to express oneself fully. This authentic living helps one support other people still on their journey to coming out. With coming out comes a lot of acceptance and gaining trusted loved ones, allies and supportive community. Friendships and other connections are now formed on the foundation of truth and openness. There is also clarity on who really matters, with those who choose to be non-allies clearly identified so queer folx can protect their peace. With coming out came more happiness and joy than ever before.
Facilitators of coming out
Our contributors found support for their coming out in both people and resources. From family, friends and lovers to colleagues, allies and community, those who embrace queer folx and cheer them on as they come out are key facilitators. Their support is shown in multiple ways, such as not assuming what the pronouns/gender of people and their partners are. This normalised recognition of 2SLGBTQIA+ folx and relationships is a way to show that queer folx are respected and welcome, and can be an allyship indicator when first meeting someone. Resilience and confidence can also come from within; looking inward and drawing on inner strength and beauty helps smoothen the path of coming out. Seeing others who have already come out living their best lives also facilitates the coming out process. This is supported by seeing visible physical signs that queerness is celebrated and welcome such as rainbow accessories/signs (stickers, logos, branded products etc.) alongside participation in Pride. These, coupled with allies calling out homo/bi/trans -phobic behaviours, are signs of a safe space where 2SLGBTQIA+ folx can come out and be themselves.
In this vein, there will be a lunchtime walk around the NDC and EDC to show support, celebrate diversity, and help create visible inclusion across our campuses. Please see the details below.
This blog is informed by the personal views of the contributors.
Lunchtime Walk around NDC and EDC campus
The Gender and Sexual Diversity (GSD) Working Group invites students and staff to join a Lunchtime Walk at both the Notre Dame Campus (NDC) and Exchange District Campus (EDC) on Thursday, October 15, from 12:00 to 1:00 PM.
Participants are encouraged to wear their RRC Polytech Pride T-shirt to show support, celebrate diversity, and help create visible inclusion across our campuses.
Walk starting locations:
- NDC: The Spectrum
- EDC: Mitakuye Oyasin Okciyape, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae
Come walk with colleagues, classmates, and friends as we celebrate National Coming Out Day and demonstrate our commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming community for all.
For questions about the Lunchtime Walk, please contact Dr. Obren Amiesimaka at oamiesimaka@rrc.ca.
Resources
At RRC Polytech, we believe that diversity is our strength. We are committed to creating inclusive learning and working environments where everyone feels safe, respected, and celebrated.
Today is an excellent opportunity to consider the ways each of us can make our learning and working spaces safe(r), more welcoming and more inclusive; and how we can support 2SLGBTQIA+ friends and colleagues.
Below are resources and further information on being allies for everyone – it doesn’t matter who you are, everyone deserves to be treated with kindness, dignity, and respect. If you have any questions or comments, please email us at diversity@rrc.ca.
Resources: