It’s Oct. 11 and that means it’s National Coming Out Day. The point of NCOD is to raise visibility for LGBTQ individuals. The idea is that if queer folks come out to those around them, it will help spread awareness and inclusiveness for LGBTQ issues. After all, it’s a lot easier to deny the rights of an individual if you don’t know them and think that you have never met a gay person.

If you are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or a self-identified queer or questioning individual, today is an opportunity to speak your truth. If you feel safe and ready, today can be a new day in your life by sharing your orientation or identity with those around you. There is power in sharing our stories and sharing our experiences. Visibility is powerful.

For allies, today is a great opportunity to stand in solidarity with LGBTQ members of our community. And it is a good idea to be prepared to be a support system for LGBTQ individuals who may come out to you and/or others. Allies can play a crucial role in creating safe spaces.

If you’re looking for an easy way to be visible , the HRC has an app for that, as well as a variety of resources to help people of all orientations and identities navigate the coming out waters.

Good luck and be safe out there!