Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Human Rights Coalition
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National Coming Out Day: Bloomington, Indiana
October 27, 2009 By Vicci Laine It is a crisp, cool, sunny Sunday afternoon, a beautiful day. People are smiling with excitement, and anticipation of what is to come throughout the day. The rhythmic sounds of a drumming circle are mingled with the sounds of the fall leaves moving in the wind and excited laughter. I am attending the first “National Coming Out Celebration” in Bloomington, Indiana. Information tables are staged along the concrete walk around the Monroe County Court House, people wandering around with the look of pride, a look of accomplishment and a look of determination. It is a small crowd but one that is so excited to be part of Bloomington history for the GLBTQ community. The event starts with a very excited duo , event organizers Aaron Casper and Dee Hupp-Sanders, entering the microphone stage to welcome every one to the event and begin the celebration. The day is filled with original song, a grand performance by Panache Dance Studio, poetry from Danielle McLelland, melodic vocals of the Quarryland Men's Chorus, and beautiful, humorous stories of coming out to the world. Individuals (including myself), were invited to come to the microphone to introduce themselves and the organizations they represent. As I took my turn at the mic to talk about, Red Ribbon Outreach Program (formerly Change4Change) and StoppingtheHate.com, the air was thick with community support, solidarity and Pride. People eager to hear what each of us were doing to help and better our community. At one point a much unexpected appearance by Monroe County Mayor, Mark Kruzan took the stage and spoke to the crowd with a positive message of support for the GLBTQ community. As I walked away from the courthouse lawn that day, I was walking away with a smile, a spring in my step, and walking a little bit taller, knowing that I had just been part of this small town community history. Sunday October 11, 2009 was a big step forward in Monroe County Indiana for the GLBTQ community! Much
Thanks go to Organizers, Aaron Casper and Dee Hupp-Sanders.
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