Coming Out on Social Media — Q Media

COMING OUT ON SOCIAL MEDIA

By, Aaron Keen

Safe spaces are important for

those in the LGBT community.
They provide a place to express
your true self. A study from Pew
Research Center shows that
almost four in ten LGBT adults
have been rejected by family and friends because of their
sexual orientation. Social media can create an online
space to find others who are like you. It can also give you
the courage to take the first bold step in coming out.
According to Facebook, over 6 million Americans have
come out on their platform since marriage equality
became law. In my own coming out story, Facebook
played a vital role. Growing up in rural Virginia, I felt I had
no support as a gay man. In 2016, I created my first video
post on Facebook sharing my story with the world. After
broadcasting my video, I was surprised by the
overwhelming support I received from all over the United
States and even a few from overseas. Other gay
individuals saw my post and private messaged me sharing
their own struggle. It was on this platform I began to find a
community who understood me.

Social media gave me an amazing opportunity. Through a

friend I met online, I was added to a private Facebook
group where I shared my story of coming out as gay and
Christian. Through this group, I connected with an LGBT-
friendly pastor. This connection inspired me to move to
Los Angeles where I worked with Reignite Ministries for a
year to promote LGBT equality in religious institutions.
My experience exemplifies how powerful social media
can be in establishing a community and creating a
support system, especially if you are from a rural area.

In an article from NBC, Youtuber Patrick Gothman, a gay

man who makes videos discussing his sexual orientation
and faith, states, “ The very last thing I thought was to
share my sexuality online…[b]ut I’m totally supportive
making better safe spaces online for people who don’t
feel comfortable.”

Social media is changing the narrative around social

issues. Sharing your own personal story is a very
influential form of advocacy. When we are our authentic
selves it encourages others to be who they are, too.
Social media allowed me, Patrick and countless others to
speak our truths. Don’t be afraid to share your truths
online.