National Coming Out Day

National Coming Out Day (NCOD) is an annual event that celebrates and raises awareness about the LGBTQ+ community’s decision to come out about their sexual orientation or gender identity. This Observance aims to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. It encourages open conversations about the diverse experiences of coming out, addressing the challenges faced by the community, and promoting understanding and acceptance.

The observance of National Coming Out Day has its origins in the United States, initiated on October 11, 1988 to mark the anniversary of the 1987 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. In Canada, the day is observed in support of the nation's LGBTQ+ community, as the country has long been a frontrunner on LGBTQ+ rights. Canada was the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2005 and has enacted numerous policies to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination, such as the inclusion of gender identity and expression in the Canadian Human Rights Act.

On National Coming Out Day, Canadians participate in various events and activities that promote open dialogue and create safe spaces for individuals to share their stories and experiences. These events may include panel discussions, film screenings, workshops, and social gatherings that engage people in conversations about the challenges and triumphs of coming out. National Coming Out Day seeks to reaffirm the significance and impact of visibility in driving equality for the LGBTQ+ community in Canada, in line with the global observance on October 11.