I Want the World to Know

Josh posted his coming out story on youtube in July of 2008. He’s 17 and currently lives in a small Alabama town with his mother. Josh came out to his mother in the summer of 2007 at age 16 and then and at school the following year. When he finally came out he felt so relieved to be able to be open with himself and everyone around him. For Josh, school has been a roller coaster ride due to homophobic harassment in the form of verbal abuse. Josh is a senior this year and plans to attend college and major in art studio and minor in film. His goal is to use his art and any form of expression to expose people to his life and things so integral to his being such as sexuality. Josh says, “Life is beautiful and we should celebrate its diversity.” Josh is wise beyond his years and very brave. Please listen to his wonderful story.

Julian posted his coming out story on youtube about 6 months ago. He grew up in Sacramento, California, and then moved to southern Oregon in his teens. He came out to his friends and family when he was 16. Julian told his female cousin first, who reacted positively and then his twin brother who did not take it as well at first. Now, his twin understands the importance of Julian being true to himself. After coming out to everyone in his life, Julian realizes that not everyone will accept him, but he will never let that compromise his being honest and proud of who he is. Julian is currently a Communications major in college and plans on becoming a novelist.