I Want the World to Know

Becca’s Coming Out Story from I Want the World to Know on Vimeo.

Becca grew up in Canton, MA, and now lives in New York City working at a non-profit film production company as an Executive Assistant/Associate Producer. She is the founder of the I Want the World to Know Initiative and is proud to finally share her coming out story with the world at the 10 month anniversary of the website. Becca was lucky in that she faced very few obstacles coming out to her family and friends. However, she recognized that most people are not as fortunate, often being tormented by peers, shunned by their families, or worse. For that reason, she decided to create a space–this website–where people of all sexualities can share their stories and find support. This video project is by far one of the most important and rewarding endeavors Becca has ever taken on. Its goal is not only to provide guidance and support, but also to educate and bring the LGBTQ community together. Becca will continue to share these stories and build this initiative until everyone feels safe to come out.

Lynn and Cathy from I Want the World to Know on Vimeo.

In August 2009, actress/vlogger/therapist Cathy DeBuono invited her mother, Lynn, to talk about her experience dealing with Cathy’s sexuality on her live vlog “What’s Your Problem?” When Cathy first came out to her mother, she did not receive the reaction she thought she would get. Lynn was surprised, confused, and angry. She moved through many different stages of grief including feelings of confusion, guilt, and mourning the loss of the child she thought she knew. Though it took her a few years to fully accept and understand Cathy’s life, she is now one of her daughter’s biggest fans! Lynn urges young people to be patient with their families but to never tolerate living in the closet. She believes that everyone should come out and live full, honest lives. Lynn is the perfect example of a parent struggling with their own “coming out” experience: coming out to support and accept their LGBTQ son or daughter. Lynn, you are a true inspiration for everyone! You can watch Cathy’s coming out story here.

Cat’s Coming Out Story from I Want the World to Know on Vimeo.

Cat Davis is a hilarious out stand-up comedian and beautiful, uber-smart gay lady. Her positive energy is contagious, and her humor is both inviting and quick. Cat grew up in Indiana where she encountered a lot of pressure to date boys. In high school, she began to realize that she might be gay but didn’t come out until she was 20 and in college. Cat had a very positive experience coming out at an East-Coast Ivy League university where she was a member of a sorority. She describes the women in her sorority as 100% supportive despite their many diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Cat also talks about the incredibly moving experience of coming out to her grandmother. Cat’s story is both serious and funny, strong and emotional. Please watch her fabulous story and check out her hysterical comedy at:
Cat’s MySpace page
Cat on the Prowl on AfterEllen
Cat on DanceMagic (Brunch with Bridget)
Cat’s Twitter

Jess’s Coming Out Story from I Want the World to Know on Vimeo.

Jess is a fabulous gay lady from New York. She grew up on Long Island and now works in the city as a web designer. She also writes for a fantastic website, Autostraddle, “an intelligent, hilarious & provocative voice and a progressive international online community for a new generation of kickass lesbian, bisexual & otherwise inclined ladies.” Jess first realized she was gay at the end of high school, and she came out to her friends and family in college. Jess loves being part of a smaller and more intimate community and believes her gayness has provided her with a more profound connection with those around her. Please watch Jess’s wonderful story! Feel free to follow Jess @jessxnyc on Twitter!