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Today is National Coming Out Day and we couldn't be more excited. We have decided to celebrate by sharing some of our favsies who have stood proud and came out in 2013.
This day is SOO important and brings awareness to a topic that needs to keep being talked about. According to the HRC, "One out of every two Americans has someone close to them who is gay or lesbian." This is clearly an issue that affects many of us in the United States.
It always makes me happy when celebrities bravely make the decision to publicly "come out" to the world. With a big platform, and thousands of adoring fans, visualization is a powerful tool in creating a more tolerant world. When young vulnerable teens see their favorite stars finding the courage to embrace their true selves, it helps boost some inner courage in others letting them know that they will be okay. "Coming out" can be one of the most nerve-racking experiences, but I know one thing for certain, it will be okay. Trust me on this. I have walked through that scary time, but you will come out stronger and better than ever.
+ Lucas Cruikshank
Back in August, Nickelodeon's Lucas Cruikshank created a video where he revealed he was gay. During the clip he stated, "It feels so weird saying it on camera. My family and friends have known for like three years, I just haven't felt the need to announce it on the Internet." As awkward as it may have felt, I can guarantee so many fans who adore his videos now love him that much more for being honest.
+ Wentworth Miller
"Coming out" is different for everyone, and when the time is right you will feel it. For Wentworth, after being invited to a Russian film festival he felt it was time to publicly address this issue. Wentworth revealed he was "deeply troubled" by the the recent Russian antics towards the LGBTQ community.
+ Zachary Quinto
For Zachary's coming out story, it was a decision that was solely his own. With no publicist directing his every move, he took it up on himself to do it in the way he felt was best. The actor said, 'I didn't tell anyone I was going to do it so no one had a chance to [give me advice]," Don't you love that? Sometimes just trusting your inner intuition is the best guide in life. People will ALWAYS give their opinion, but deep down you will know what is best for yourself.
+ Raven Symone
When it came to her private life, Raven was adamant about putting a lock on it and keeping it just that, private. But after more states started legalizing gay marriage, the actress took to Twitter and revealed, "I can finally get married! Yay government! So proud of you." We are proud of YOU for "coming out"!
+ Charice
With 4 in 10 LGBT youth claiming their community is not accepting of the LGBT community, it's important to continue to be vocal in order to change this. One person who is doing just that is the extremely talented, Charice! The 21-year-old singer "came out" back in June while doing an interview. She bravely opened up by saying, "Yes I'm a lesbian. I don't see a problem with that, because for me there isn't a problem."
+ Jason Collins
Back in May, Jason Collins made history by coming out as the first openly gay basketball player. He made the announcement in the pages of Sports Illustrated and beautifully wrote, "No one wants to live in fear. I've always been scared of saying the wrong thing. I don't sleep well. I never have. But each time I tell another person, I feel stronger and sleep a little more soundly. It takes an enormous amount of energy to guard such a big secret." A hard secret indeed for many to express, but with Jason owning his he can act as an inspiration for others.
+ Robbie Rogers
There is no doubt Robbie has had quite an eventful year! From "coming out" to becoming a huge LGBTQ role model for so many around the world. The Galaxy star "came out" by writing a letter on his website. He writes, "Honesty is a bitch but makes life so simple and clear. My secret is gone, I am a free man, I can move on and live my life as my creator intended." We had the chance to talk to Robbie back in May, and were blown away by how awesome he is.
