Los Angeles Becomes First Major City In The U.S. To Recognize ‘National Coming Out Day’

For Immediate Release: October 11, 2024

Today, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously adopted a resolution, introduced by Councilmember Nithya Raman, to declare October 11th, 2024 as ‘National Coming Out Day’ in the City of Los Angeles, becoming the first major city in the U.S. to officially recognize the day.

‘National Coming Out Day’ was first celebrated in 1988 by LGBTQ+ activists Jean O’Leary and Robert Eichberg, to mark the anniversary of the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. The day has been observed annually for the last 36 years, serving as a celebration of coming out to loved ones as well as a campaign to raise awareness around LGBTQIA+ civil rights issues still prevalent across the country. 

A record 530 anti-LGBTQIA+ bills have been introduced in state houses around the U.S. as of September 2024, more than in the last five years combined. In the face of these harmful actions – including LGBTQIA+ erasure bills that strip away legal protections and rights – the City of Los Angeles has reaffirmed its commitment to fully recognizing the LGBTQIA+ community and ensuring people feel seen and safe no matter who they choose to love. 

“LA has been the center of vibrant queer spaces throughout this country’s history, and our city – our nation – is better for what has happened here,” said Councilmember Nithya Raman. “While some people in this country have decided that hatred is good politics, here in LA, we reject that notion. To everyone who is proudly out or still questioning – I want you to know that you are loved, you are valid, and you have a strong community here that is waiting with open arms to embrace you.” 

“As someone who came out later in life, I was amazed to learn that pivotal moments in the queer rights movement –  like the 1967 Black Cat protests – happened right here in LA,” said PJ Brescia, Founder of BabyGay. “I am deeply grateful to our LGBTQ+ elders who paved the way for us. Now, with BabyGay, The Black Cat, and the City of LA officially recognizing National Coming Out Day in Los Angeles, we’re honoring that legacy and pushing visibility forward.”

“On National Coming Out Day, the Los Angeles LGBT Center acknowledges the courage of those who have come out, recognizes the challenges faced by those who cannot, and emphasizes the ongoing work required to ensure equal rights and protections for all,” said Robert Gamboa, Associate Director of Public Policy for the LGBT Center. “We are grateful for the continued support from the Los Angeles City Council to ensure that we can create a future where everyone can both love and identify openly and proudly not just on National Coming Out Day, but every day.”

“We are very excited to celebrate National Coming Out Day with the City of Los Angeles, knowing the countless LGBTQ+ individuals who find safe haven here deserve to be recognized and uplifted,” said June Paniouchkine, Policy Associate at the TransLatin@ Coalition. “Coming out is a life changing experience that allows people to live as authentically themself, and allows LGBTQ+ people to enjoy the rights and liberties they are afforded. The TransLatin@ Coalition is very thankful for the opportunity to celebrate this historic day with Councilmember Raman and the rest of the City Council!”

“We’re excited to be partnering with BabyGay to celebrate National Coming Out Day at The Black Cat,” said Lindsay Kennedy, co-owner of the Black Cat. “Everything about this day and this event aligns with our values and our ethos, past, present and future.” 

To mark the occasion, City Hall will be lit up in the colors of the Pride flag starting at 8:30pm, Friday, October 11th. 

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