Our Children
When Someone Comes Out: Demonstrating Support and Acceptance
The term “coming out” has become so mainstream that many people assume that the phrase—and the actions it entails—is simple when it is anything but. In this session, participants will learn about what it means to come out today. They will also find out about some of the ways that living authentically positively impacts various aspects of the lives of people who are LGBTQ+ and the power of supportive families, schools, workplaces, and communities.
All levels Let's Talk
Course Length
90 minutes (in-person or hybrid), 60 minutes (online)
Who this course is for
General audience, no prior knowledge of LGBTQ+ issues required.
Download a one page PDF that includes information about this learning session.
Despite the progress made in acceptance for people who identify as LGBTQ+, the process of coming out can still be harrowing, especially at work. Leveraging PFLAG’s 50 years of experience as the nation’s original ally organization, this session will:
- Review LGBTQ+ terminology related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression as well as coming out, inviting in, and disclosure
- Detail some of the positive impacts that living authentically has for people who are LGBTQ+
- Discuss the power that supportive families, allies, communities, and workplaces can have to create change for people who are LGBTQ+
- Provide guidance on what to think about if you’re planning on coming out and ways that allies can demonstrate their support for friends, colleagues, and family who identify as LGBTQ+
- Provide resources from PFLAG National and partner organizations
Customized learning options available for youth-serving professionals.
Participant Materials