National Coming Out Day

            October 11^th is National Coming Out Day. A day established to celebrate those who have come out and those who have yet to come out. Lehigh’s LBGTQIA services (Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex, Ally) brought their common room, a safe space entitled the Rainbow Room, outside onto the UC Front Lawn to demonstrate their presence on campus and most importantly, that there are accepting and available support systems on campus.

            There were snacks, balloons and pins available to everyone, even non-LBGTQIA members, who were willing to show their support to create a more accepting and supportive environment for those who have come out of the closet and those who have yet to come out. The black door placed on the UC walkway served as a symbol of hope and commemoration for LGBTQIA’s around the world.

             With regards to the photo documentary, candid photos were hard to obtain due to the sensitive subject matter of the event and the necessity to ask individual permission prior to taking any photo. In addition, the height and brightness of the sun that day presented certain issues regarding the exposure of the photos. Overall, the video presents an accurate portrayal of the event itself and gives the symbolic importance of the event its due justice.