National Coming Out Day, celebrated every year on October 11th, is a day of empowerment, visibility, and celebration of belonging for and with LGBTQIA+ individuals. This day embodies authenticity and unity as we honor the journey of self-discovery and the freedom of being true to oneself. LACOE is committed to creating safe, supportive and inclusive learning and working environments for all students, families and staff. 

National Coming Out Day is a day of celebration and awareness for the LGBTQIA+ community. For many LGBTQIA+ individuals, coming out can be a significant and sometimes challenging experience. As an education community, we play a crucial role in fostering conditions for belonging and visibility.

Los Angeles Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Debra Duardo shares a message on National Coming Out Day:

Learn More: Board Resolution No. 50: Recognize Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) Pride Month in June 2023

The Importance of Supporting LGBQTIA+ Students

Supporting our LGBTQIA+ students is essential for wellbeing and academic success. When students feel safe, seen and accepted, they are more likely to thrive in school. Here are some reasons why educators should actively support LGBTQIA+ students: 

• Mental Health: Research shows LGBTQIA+ students are at a higher risk for mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. According to the Trevor Project, LGBTQIA+ youth who report having at least one accepting adult were 40% less likely to report a suicide attempt in the past year. Your support can make a significant difference in their emotional well-being. 

• Academic Achievement: A supportive environment positively impacts academic performance. LGBTQIA+ students who feel accepted are more likely to excel in their studies. 

• Reducing Bullying: LGBTQIA+ students often face higher rates of bullying and harassment. Educators can help create a culture of respect and inclusion that combats hate and discrimination. 

Resources

To establish and sustain safe spaces in our classrooms, schools and communities, we must first educate and empower ourselves. The resources below can serve as valuable tools for educators looking to expand their knowledge and support LGBTQIA+ students  effectively: 

• The California Department of Education (CDE) provides instructional guidance, law and policies for local educational agencies to support LGBTQIA+ students and provide safe learning environments that protect the health and safety of LGBTQ+ students. See resource: https://www.cde.ca.gov/pd/ee/supportlgbtq.asp

• Los Angeles County-specific resources can be found here: https://www.cde.ca.gov/pd/ee/region11.asp

• GLSEN has activities for all grade levels to help educators integrate LGBTQIA+ history, people and issues into instructional programs. See resource: https://www.glsen.org/activity-list?program=All&type=98&topic=All&issue=All&grade=All 

• This toolkit can support youth-serving professionals, educators, and clinicians in ensuring that LGBTQ+ youth, especially youth of color, are affirmed and validated in their organizations. See resource: Creating Safer Spaces For LGBTQ Youth: A Toolkit for Education, Healthcare, And Community-based Organizations

• This guide is geared toward the needs of all students, K-12, and incorporates distinctions and recommendations based on the specific ages and stages of students’ development. See resource: Schools In Transition: A Guide for Supporting Transgender Students in K-12 Schools

• This brief uses data from The Trevor Project’s 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health to examine the diversity of nonbinary youth. See resource: Diversity of Nonbinary Youth

• The Trevor Project 2022-National Survey on LGBTQ Mental Health by State: 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health by State

• LAUSD’s Human Relations, Diversity, and Equity: https://achieve.lausd.net/human-relations