Wes Culwell, Orange, CA

Gay Activist / Film Maker
DOB: July 1978
OUT: August 1999 (to friends), September 2000 (to family)
"The time for equality is not tomorrow, it's TODAY."

Brett Pugliese, Los Angeles, CA

Attorney
DOB: October 1981
OUT: March 2002

Dennis Hensley, North Hollywood, CA

Writer
DOB: September 29
OUT: 1988-ISH, I THINK

Robb McArthur, New York, NY

Occupation: Event Planner
DOB: August 1972
OUT: December 26, 1999

Kurt Lee, Chicago, IL

Graduate Student
DOB: April 1974
OUT: July 27, 2001
www/megaone.com/kurt

Jeffrey Prang, West Hollywood, CA

Mayor of the City of West Hollywood, CA
DOB: June 1962
OUT: in June 1984

Kiat Hui, Washington DC

Network Engineer
DOB: May 1977
OUT: March 1997

Reichen, Los Angeles, CA

Actor/Model/Business Owner/Pilot
DOB: December 1973 in Cincinnati Ohio
Grew up in Norton, Massachusetts, after age 8.
OUT: to himself, January 1994
OUT: of the military and to everyone, June 2001 (7 years-forced to hide my sexuality)

Fred West, San Diego, CA

Techno-Geek/Event Coordinator
DOB: January 1965
OUT: April 1996

Joshua Molick, Los Angeles, CA

DOB: July 1979
OUT: Around The beginning of 2000

Yogen Kushi, Boston, MA

Macrobiotic Teacher, Actor, Graphic Designer
DOB: November 1978
OUT: Spring 1996
www.yogenkushi.org

Stephen Sanzone, Boston, MA

Senior Security Consultant
DOB: June 1970
OUT: June, 1992

John Andrew Manelski, West Hollywood, CA

Director of Operations
DOB: November 1977
OUT: March 18th 2002

Brent Fortune, San Diego, CA

Small Business Owner (Coffeehouse)
DOB: April 196X
OUT: since 1996

Michael McIver, Los Angeles, CA

Culture Marketing Executive
DOB: September 1973
OUT: to friends in 1996, to family in 1998

Jeremy Gordon, Los Angeles, CA

Teacher (and out at work)
DOB: November 1972
OUT: I came out when I was 24.

Mark Gisler, Los Angeles, CA

Actor / PR
DOB: April 1978
OUT: October 1998

Jonathan Young, San Diego, CA

Journalist / Graphic Designer
DOB: August 1970
OUT: November 1995

Jeremy Mycroft Prestegard, Irvine, CA

Tech Support
DOB: December 1974
OUT: Sunday, December 20, 1992
hometown.aol.com/earthjeremy

Steven Oliveri, San Diego, CA.

Professional Disc Jockey
DOB: November 1956
OUT: 1980. I was 22.

Marcellas Reynolds, Los Angeles, CA, and Chicago, IL

RAW (Reality Star, Actor, Whatever)
DOB: November 1972
OUT: Came out to my mother the summer of 1996. Have been out to my friends since 1989.

George Russell, Coatesville, PA

Program Manager
DOB: February 1966
OUT: December 1984

Loren Anthony Dominguez, Houston, TX

Client Services & Marketing - Alyson Adventures, Inc.
DOB: February 1967
OUT: 1988

Douglas Ross, Los Angeles, CA

TV Producer
DOB: March 1961
OUT: 1984

Adam Edwards, San Diego, CA

Actor/Teacher
DOB: Old enough to remember Bannanaramma
OUT: No official coming out date, it was an evolution from my Junior year of HS until my first year of living on my own (17-18). There just weren't any cute guys in high school, but those college boys...

Carey R., San Francisco, CA

Director of Corporate Finance
DOB: March 7
OUT: My last year of college, 1990

Keith E. Wright, GLENDALE, CA (orig. Providence, RI)

Actor (along with other "regular" jobs)
DOB: January 1962
OUT: January 22, 1983

Brian Dailey, Los Angeles, CA

Marketing VP for Artisan Entertainment
DOB: January 1969
OUT: February 1994 (that's the first day I spoke to a gay friend about it and he took me out that night)

Samuel Borelli, West Hollywood, CA

Fundraiser/Media Strategist
DOB: July 1967
OUT: 150 years ago (1985)

Christopher McDonald, Los Angeles, CA

Producer/Casting Director
DOB:January 1975
OUT: 1997

Eddie Shapiro, Los Angeles/ New York

AIDS Walk Senior Event Manager/ Author
DOB: March...dream on
OUT: April 23, 1986

Garrett Z., Endicott, NY

Student
DOB: May 1987
OUT: May 8,2003

Tommy Garceau, West Hollywood, CA

Human Resources Manager
DOB: January 1979
OUT: January 19th, 1995

Melissa Markston, Abilene, TX

Modern Dance
DOB: September 1980
OUT: When I was 17 - Dec 1997 (Christmas Vacation!)

Fred Risher, Los Angeles, CA

Casting Director for reality shows
DOB: August 1972
OUT: March of 1994 (2 months before my college graduation because I wanted my family and close friends to know me and who I really was at my graduation.)

Rasmus Dixen, Los Angeles, CA

Shipping Manager
DOB: December 1975 (Denmark)
OUT: January 2000

Tony Lombardo, Los Angeles, CA

Creative
DOB: 1977
OUT: 1994

Scott Myers, Lincoln Park, IL

Student/Music Teacher
DOB: November 11, 1983
OUT: April 1999

Jonathan Lim, Lincoln Park, IL

Student/Store Manager
DOB: December 1983
OUT: July 2002

Kory Preston Schaff, San Diego, CA

Philosopher, UCSD
DOB: July 1974 in Billings, MT
OUT: May 1993 in Chicago, IL
www.mindchanging.com

Stephanie Schroder, Kansas City, KS

Student
DOB: February 1986
OUT: February 2003

Scott Shaddow, Long Beach, CA

Future teacher of america
DOB: August 1979 (24 y/o)
OUT: August 1995
"Love takes off masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within."

Thomas D. Pokladowski, Orange, CA

Law Student
DOB: September 1978
OUT: April 1998

Jeremy Beaulieu, Saco, ME

Student at Bost on University
DOB: August 1985
OUT: July 9, 2001
I came out at the age of 15 and I was the only kid at my high school to be openly gay and would be confronted by people about it. This has lead to my passion to educate people that are ignorant and may not know any GLBT people.

Dustin Holden, Memphis, TN

Student / Radio Broadcasting
DOB: Januaru 1981
OUT: To myself: January 1997 To everyone: May 1999
I realized I was gay at 12. I gradually began to come out to friends and family members (mostly friends though). It was gut-wrenching coming out in Mississippi, but along with the jerks and the haters, there were more supporters overall. Although many people gossiped about my "gayness" when my boyfriend showed up to my sophomore play rehearsals in high school, I officially came out just before graduating. I wrote a paper in my psychology class about homosexuality--using myself as an example. The hands shot up faster than lightning to ask questions. It was great! I will hold that memory with me always.

Christopher Reardanz, Aurora, IL (suburb of Chicago)

Student/McDonalds worker/caddie
DOB: July 1985
OUT: Sept. 2000
"What's the Deal?"

Dustin Schueneman, San Diego, CA

Database Administrator
DOB: October 1973
OUT: August 21, 1996

AJ Davis, San Diego, CA

Civil Rights Advocate
DOB: January 1975
OUT: Hard to say since we are always coming out in
different aspects of our lives every day. I started coming out around 1994/1995 and will continue to do so every chance I get!

Amanda Patton, Chicago, IL

Student
DOB: Jan 1984
OUT: September 1, 2003

Shawn Ingram, San Diego, CA

Director of Development, San Diego LGBT Community Center
DOB: April 1966
OUT: Summer of 1981. I was 15.
www.thecentersd.org

TO HONOR THE MEMORY OF

David Stewart Glasson, MA
DOB: July 1953
OUT: (to close friends) July 19,1972
Died: July 23, 1995
Missed terribly by his friends that loved him.

Sarah Billings, San Diego, CA

Student
DOB: December 1987
OUT: December 25, 2002
"I'm a lesbian and I love it!"

Matt Hendry, San Francisco, CA

Project Manager
DOB: April 1976
OUT: 1998

John Corrigan, Los Angeles, CA

Director of Finance
DOB: August 1963
OUT: December 1999
Great weight off my shoulders when I came out. Only regret--waited too long and my parents died before I could tell them. All the reasons I feared telling them before seem minimal today.

Troy Greene, Los Angeles CA

Owner and designer of T-shirt line "guerrillagear"
DOB: April 1962
OUT: 1985
www.guerrillagear.com

Peter Blackburn, Sydney, Australia

Student (Eng Lit. & Film)
DOB: Nov 1978
OUT: April 1997
I was actually looking forward to the challenge of defending my identity. I was a bit miffed I didn't get to meet those challenges because I found my family and friends (those who didn't already know) were really supportive and even interested. I'm kidding, of course, it was fantastic that I was lucky enough to have a supportive network when I came out.... & since then, well, it's onward and upward. Sydney is a pretty fantastic town to be in when you're just coming out - there are plenty of places, social networks, friendly, diverse people, lots of gay events to participate in & the city itself is about as gay friendly as you get ... open & happy.

Jason Kellihr, Boston, MA

Customer Service Professional/Student
DOB: April 1976
OUT: April 1995

Cindy McManus, Santa Fe, NM

Teacher
DOB: June 1974
OUT: January 1990
"Carpe Diem"

Ron Angelo, So. Attleboro, MA

Ticket Agent
DOB: June 1960
OUT: June 1982

Douglas Loynd, Phoenix, AZ

Database Administrator/Entrepreneur
DOB: May 1963
OUT: March 1978
Happily parntered since 1994
www.geocities.com/donaldanddoug

Michael Brennan, San Diego, CA

Assistant Project Manager for a Landscape Architectural Firm
DOB: July 1979
OUT: April 2001
Accepting myself was a struggle for years because of my faith and upbringing. Not until I read Stranger at the Gate by Mel White did I understand that I could love God and be gay. If you are a Christian and find yourself in a similar situation please take the time to read this book!

Russ Ericksen, Minneapolis, MN

Student, Boston
DOB: November 1983
OUT: January 2000
"But the tears on the pillow are dry, my dear.
Gonna let it all go, 'cause I have no fear." -Basement Jaxx
http://groups.msn.com/russlush3

Todd Ott, Chandler, AZ

Sales
DOB: June 1975
OUT: Feb. 1997
Don't Ask, Don't Tell? Who Says!

David Bursky, Wynnewood, PA

Administrative
DOB: March 1973
OUT: February 18, 1997

Glenn Coppola, Cincinnati, OH

Telemarketer
DOB: March 19??
OUT: 1987

Sandee Lackmire

Student
DOB: September 1980
OUT: Yesterday! December 18, 2004
Holy Shit! I just came out!

Allen Clary, Austin, TX

Student / Writer for television
DOB: November 1978
OUT: Spring 1998
The most important part to the coming out process is finding special and wonderful friends who are gay--these people will become your net, your backbone, your home. They have been exactly where you are and you can take solace in knowing you aren't the only one going through these things. You're not changing as a person; you're just discovering who you really are and how you really fit into this world. Having a strong network of good friends didn't happen instantly, but it's definitely the most integral part of my own coming out. It's pretty awesome to know that now I can be that friend to other people.

Bob Hardie, Tacoma WA

Gay Activist / Compassionate Community Member
DOB: June 9 (same as Johnny Depp)
OUT: 1994
Blessings

Nicholas Yale, Phoenix, AZ

Realtor
DOB: May 1977
OUT: August 1999
"Enjoy life on step at a time"
www.nicholasyale.com

Cameron Pashak, Vancouver, Canada

Facilitator of PFLAG (Retired) / Photographer
DOB: April 1965
OUT: September 1990
www.cameronpashak.com

David M Yelton Jr., Fern Park, Florida

Walt Disney World Driver
DOB: September 1977
Out: May 2000

Anthony Meek, Youngstown, OH

Ph.D Student of Psychology / Model / Future psychologist for the LGBT Community
DOB: February 1980
OUT: October 2003
I decided to come out in October for several reasons. I was tired of being untrustworthy to my parents. I was also lying to myself. I was trying to live as a heterosexual, which I knew that I was not. There is nothing wrong with being gay. My motto is "You are in control of your own destany."
http://www.geocities.com/anthonyrm1980

Jeff Fillion, Lansing, MI

Creative Director
DOB: February 1968
OUT: November 2000
After 8 years of marriage I finally admitted to myselfthat I was gay and came out in November 2000. While itwas the most difficult decision I've ever had to make,I've never been happier in my life. I've had positivesupport from everyone and am so glad that I finallymade the decision to be true to myself. For the fir sttime in my life I feel like I'm the person I was alwaysmeant to be.

Tommy Lewey, Chicago, IL

Student
DOB: March 1987
OUT: October 13, 2003
Smile! It makes people wonder what you've been up to!

Robert(Bobby) A. Goderich

LGBT youth Counselor/Actor/Singer/Bartender/Retail Sales
DOB: October 1979
OUT: October 6, 1998
Interests: Sports, Performing, cooking, hiking, helping queer youth find who they are-while helping them try and cope with everday happenings-, shopping, laughing

Todd Carpenter, Haleyville, AL

Gay Activist/Student/Customer Care Manager
DOB: February 1975
OUT: August 1999

Alan McCabe

dj for peace,love,unity,respect (plur nation)
DOB: November 1983
OUT: October 9, 2002
I decided to come out to most people because I was feeling like I was hiding too much of myself and I couldn't be who I really was. I told my friend first and he blabbed it to everyone so I really couldn't deny it anymore.
www.set2rise.com

Vincent C. Brann, Northampton, MA

Retired University Professor
DOB: February 1927
OUT: About 1945
Never had a long-term relationship, but have many friends, gay & straight; I am far too old for bar-hopping and cruising. I share acondo with a gay friend my age who was in college with me. We are not lovers, justvery good friends, splitting the bills.

Nick Vargas, Santa Clara, CA

Investment Consultant
DOB: April 1977
OUT: January 1999
Coming out has been a continual process for me. I find that the more people Itell, the better life gets. Being closeted is suffocating.

Roy Fenn

Stockbroker's Assistant/Broker trainee
DOB: December 1978
OUT: June 1997
www.xanga.com/wehoroy

Justin Lane Ross, Los Angeles, CA

Writer
DOB: November 1977
OUT: January 2001
"...sometimes it's hard to be what you are,but in the end, I suspect it is even more difficult tobe what you are not."

"We live in an atmosphere of shame. We are ashamed ofeverything that is real about us;
ashamed ofourselves, our relatives, of our incomes, of ouraccents, of our opinions,
of our experience, just aswe are ashamed of our own naked skins."
-George Bernard Shaw

"This is my life. It is my one time to be ME. I wantto experience every good thing."
-Maya Angelou

Darla McNikols, DeMoines, IA

Nurse
DOB: September 1954
OUT: Mother of a Gay Son. Love ya Jimmy!

Michael Angelo Natale, MD., Cape Cod, MA

Anesthesiologist
DOB: November 1964
OUT: August 1994
The first person I ever told was a girl I had befriended in medical school who was doing her residency at Mass General with me.

Danny Grooms, Moncks Corner, SC

Student
DOB: September 1986
OUT: Always been

In Honor Of

Samuel F. Jersey, Orlanda, FL
Elementary/Middle School Teacher for 30 years
DOB: January 25, 1945
Passed Away: August 22, 1995
"Kids and teaching are my life.

David Christian Hansen, Tampa, Florida

Walt Disney Co./Mass Communications and Public Relations
DOB: September 1971
OUT: November 25, 1999
Just your typical gay guy who was in the closet because of family and religion. I got married in 1998 because I thought that was the right thing to do and that would somehow "fix" me. I am lucky that my ex wife has become the "Grace" to my "Will" and we are now the best of friends! I know its not easy but it is possible to be yourself, you just have to take that step.

Matteo Trisolini, New York City, NY

Photographer
DOB: September 1974
OUT: September 1995
"Thank God I was born Gay..."
www.matteotrisolini.com

David Castillo, III, Washington, DC

Communications for Education Non-profit
DOB: July 1979
OUT: May 2002
After going to a college where half the men were gay, one would've thought it would be easy to come out. I didn't and for 4 years struggled with it. Finally came out a year after college. Its been great and my fear of losing people I loved never happened. Definitely one of the scariest things I ever had to do.

Jim Laird, Brush Prairie, Washington

Flight Attendant
DOB: August 1964
OUT: August 1983
"The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary"

Rodnie J. Allanigue, Virginia Beach, VA

DOB: March 1971
OUT: June 1999
luckyspencer@yahoo.com

Carie Roberts, New York, NY

Lawyer
DOB: S eptember 1973
OUT: December 24, 1993
Just because I wear lipstick, doesn't mean I'm a lipstick lesbian.

Dean H. Jordan, Washington, DC

Fundraiser
DOB: February 1968
OUT: To self: 1998 To the world:2000
"Sometimes you feel like a nut..."

Benjamin Carr, Atlanta, GA

Writer
DOB: June 1976
OUT: April 1995
rileymccarthy.blogspot.com

Jamie, Sydney, Australia

Actor / Uni Student
DOB: March 1980
OUT: November 1999
I think the hardest thing about coming out is the fear of the unknown. What will it mean? What does it make me? and Who will hate me?

Telling everybody that I was gay was the most liberating and relieving process I have ever taken. It is a lot harder to live a secret life or punish yourself. Denial is more painful than honesty; and honesty and courage give us integrity.

You will be surprised how many people support your strength and courage. You will then be equally surprised to then find millions of other guys and girls living out content, open, honest lives.

Susan J. McManus, Houston, TX

Special Education Teacher
DOB: December 1968
OUT: Jan 1990
Always root for the underdog.

Pete Walsh, Niagara Falls / Buffalo, New York

Paramedic / Fire Fighter
DOB: August 1970
OUT: Fall 1993
www.facelink.com/pjw911

Jeff Antsen, Fairfax, VA

Student / Activist
DOB: October 1986
OUT: September 2002
Highly ironic - my freshmen year girlfriend actually pulled me out of the closet. It's great finally being able to breathe; the most liberating thing I've ever experienced. The most important thing in life is loving yourself and knowing who you are.

Nathan Alexander Wielandt

Operations Supervisor, Staffing Industry
DOB: July 1972
OUT: Friends 1992 / To My Mom 1992 / My Dad and Sister 2001

Ernest Wlostowski, NY

Student
DOB: March 1988
OUT: December 2002

Josh Travierso, San Francisco, CA

Veterinary Assistant
DOB: November 1974
OUT: July 1992
Life should be savored like a fine wine,unfortunately, I still have that cheap chardonnay taste in my mouth.....

Jon McCraw, San Jose, CA

Sales & Marketing Director
DOB: April 1977
OUT: October 1995
I'm just little ole me...

James Ver Steeg, Buffalo, NY

Executive Director, LGBT Pride Center of Western NY
DOB: June 1967
OUT: 1988
www.pridecenterwny.org

Jennifer Bartel, Portland, OR

Dental Hygenist
DOB: June 1976
OUT: August 1995
Smile! It's how I make my living! :D

Jason Hines, Houston, TX

Executive for Target (or, Tar-gay as I like to call it!)
DOB: April 1972
OUT: April 2001 - My birthday, to my mom

James Burns

DOB: December 1961
OUT: July 1976
I am hearing impaired.

Alan Hiner, Johnstown, PA

Banker/Head Teller (no smart remarks LOL)
DOB: February 1955
OUT: September 1989
"Life is too short to worry about what others think"

Chad Sievers, Indianapolis, IN

Editor / Basketball and Volleyball Official
DOB: September 1971
OUT: Self: February 1992 Parents: July 1992
"Our true home is in the present moment.To live in the present moment is a miracle. The miracle is not to walk on water.The miracle is to walk on the green Earth in the present moment, to appreciate the peace and beauty that are available now.Peace is all around us -- in the world and in nature -- and within us -- in our bodies and in our spirit.Once we learn to touch this peace, we will be healed and transformed.It is not a matter of faith; it is a matter of practice."
--Tich Nhat Hanh

Andrew McCoy, Montogemery, AL

Student
DOB: September 1986
OUT: August 2003

Ryan Athearn, Alexandria, VA

Clinical Research Associate
DOB: June 1979
OUT: Friends: January 2000 Family: May 2001
Gay Men's Chorus of Washington, DC
www.gmcw.org

Cameron Muir, Sydney AU

Designer / Photographer
DOB: November 1977
OUT: January 1997
For and / or on behalf
Cameron Muir Productions / www.cmp.au.com

Cynthia Platt, Seattle, Washington

Student / Barista
DOB: June 1982
OUT: August 1999
"Mom, I've got Caner...Just kidding, I'm GAY!"

Greg Bawdon, Brea, CA

Student
Interests: Singing, Dancing, Reading
DOB: 1987
OUT: 2001
"Love never fails." -unknown
"You must always have faith in others. But most importantly, you must always have faith in yourself."

D. Read, Minneapolis, MN

Finance/Retail Marketing
DOB: February 1971
OUT: October 1998
"Gay & the Beautiful!"
My first appearance was coming out on a Halloween night and dressing in drag. I felt very AKWARD in the situation and totally OUT! One thing lead to another and I found myself a Gay Activist and joining the Parade at the Minneapolis, Twin Cities Pride. It was the most exciting day of my Life! I am now traveling to get to know Gay Communities world-wide.

Jeff Jenkins, Fort Myers, FL

Development Consultant
Interests: Scuba Diving
DOB: April 19
OUT: When I was 18
I live life each day to the fullest. That is why I feel I lead a very adverturous life. I love to do things that are exciting and at a moments notice and full of risk. I usually have to have something exciting planned though or I will go nuts!

David Ledoux, Newington, CT

Student
DOB: May 1982
OUT: August 2002

Elijah Samuel Quesada, Martinez, CA

Actor/ Temp placement worker
DOB: May 1981
OUT: September 1997

Bill, Syracuse, NY

Student
DOB: February 1988
OUT: October 1, 2003 (I decided to come out on the first so it would be easier to remember)
I'm 15 - 16 in February. I decided to come out of the closet ate such a youthful age because every night I would toss and turn thinking about how I was going to come out. Soooo... I set a date, the first, and prepared myself. I told my friends,,, very supportive, then told my family. MY family didn't take it well, and still don't. But Fortunately for me, I like myself and if someone doesn't... o well!! lol I came up with these two quotes:

1. like people for who they are, NOT who they like
2. there should be no etiquette when it comes to being yourself

Jackson L Cavanaugh, Milwaukee, WI

Educator
DOB: January 1967
OUT: June 1981
Honesty with oneself is freedom, honesty with others is liberation.

Michael Tabet, Brisbane, Australia

Student / Musician
Interests: Sports, Dancing, Music, Gym, Laughing
DOB: January 1989
OUT: (Gay or Bi / Still figuring it all out.) January 2001
"Live Life To The Max cause U never know what's gonna happen next, and before u realise, it's all over..."

Mike Keil, Salem, OR

Special Educator
DOB: October 1967
OUT: Started coming out on Mother's Day 2000
I have been slowly coming out to friends and family since I told my mom. I usually don't say much unless asked. With shows such as Queer as Folk, Queer Eyefor the Straight Guy and Boy Meets Boy my confidence in coming out grows.

Michael Therrien, Central Massachusetts

College Student / Clerk
DOB: February 1982
OUT: November 1997
http://borg3590.tripod.com

Lance Halliwell, San Dimas, CA

Gay Activist / Student
DOB: July 1982
OUT: July 1999
"Time heals all wounds, but, time does not heal memories."

Chris Jamison, Austin, TX

Teacher
DOB: January 1980
OUT: June 1998
"Everything's Bigger in TX!"

Kevin Merrifield, Seattle, WA

Entrepreneur, manager and writer
DOB: January 20
OUT: 1990
I came out in 1990 when I divorced my wife! I have been active in Aidsawareness and support along with the efforts of my three children.

I am a happily partnered gay father of three who lives in the Northwest. Imarried because I felt family pressure to conform to the expected standardsof the upper middle class, but am finally mentally healthy and living mylife with my partner of six years. My children are supportive and love mypartner almost as much as I do. There really was a silver lining to my stormcloud ...:-)

Guy Frohling, Dows, IA

Student/Ellsworth Community College
DOB: October 1982
OUT: Aunt and Cousin in 1999. Everyone else in 2000
"That which does not kill us, makes us stronger."
-Steel Magnolias

Chip Lewis, Washington, DC

Public Relations
DOB: May 1968
OUT: March 1992
The first time someone shows you who they are, believe them.
- Maya Angelou

Victor Morales, Fort Worth, TX.

Customer Service
DOB: April 1982
OUT: 1998 (at the age of 16)
High school was hard, but life is even harder.

Matt David-Brendan Smith, Virginia Beach, VA

College Student - T.C.C.
DOB: July 1982
OUT: Mid 2004 (friends, then mom and sisters)
"When I was in the military, they gave me a medal for killing two men and a discharge for loving one"
- Leonard Matlavich (1943-1988)
Air Force Sergeant
Inscription on the gravestone of the first active-duty soldier to acknowledge his homosexuality.

Justin Harper, Central Pennsylvania

(AKA Mercedes Bent)
Student, Part-time Employee at GAP
DOB: June 1983
OUT: Decemberish 2003
www.geocities.com/justin_largent
"I'd rather let my flame burn bright than be a tiny pilot light"
-Emmit, Queer as Folk

Steve Tanny, Costa Mesa, CA

Senior Buyer - Ingram Micro
DOB: June 1972
OUT: 1991, I was 19
I wouldn't change who I am for anything in the universe.

Maximiliano Rodriguez, New Orleans, LA

Student
DOB: May 1981
OUT: September 2002
I'm speechless.

George Klawitter, Austin, TX

Teacher
DOB: January 1942
OUT: December 1983
http://www.stedwards.edu/hum/klawitter

Faith Pincus, Los Angeles, CA

Attorney
DOB: 1964
OUT: 1995 (after my divorce)
Wish I would known lesbian women sooner, would have saved me a lot of time among other things.

"Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of itsvictims may be the most oppressive. It may be better to live under robberbarons than under omnipotent moral busybodies.... those who torment us forour own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval oftheir own conscience."
- C.S. Lewis

Kylin J. Weeks, Richmond, VA

Student
DOB: August 1982
OUT: August 2001
These are the days. Love life; live life to the fullest for that you only get one chance to live. I wouldn't change one thing about my life and I'm the happiest I've been in a long time.

Richard Taylor, Buffalo, NY

Undergraduate Student at Erie Community College
DOB: August 1984
OUT: September 22, 2002
(I was 18 and out to self when I was 11)
GAY
AND
PROUD

Steve Lepre, Charleston, SC

Entrepr eneur, documentarian, director
DOB: August 1960
OUT: 1979 - to friends.
1983 - to community.
1993 - to mother. (oy)
Coming out was a journey. I truly came out when I fellin love with my partner in 1992.
www.diningwithfriendscharleston.org
www.sunheadprojects.com

Ryan Burger, Poughkeepsie, NY

Student
DOB: May 1984
OUT: October 2000 to friends
September 2001 to family
"So lets dance through all of this. War is over for a bit. The whole world should be moving. Do your part. Cure a lonely heart. Your disco needs you!"
-Kylie Minogue; international Gay Icon

Angelo D'Agostino, San Diego CA

Actor/Singer
(and Corporate Visual Merchandising Communications Manager
Charlotte Russe / RAMPAGE Stores - that's my day job!)
DOB: March 1978
OUT: was I ever in? (year 2000, and then some)
"All Art is quite useless."
-Oscar Wilde

Adam Burgess, Chicago, IL

College Student
DOB: April 1983
OUT: Fall 2001
"We have all loved someone too much.
We have all wanted to prove our everlasting devotion.
We have all looked quietly at our loved one across the room
and thought to ourselves, "I'd die for you!
I'd kill for you!'"

Michael Chudick, New York, NY

Non-Profit
DOB: January 1979
OUT: June 2000 (family)
June 1998 (friends)
"Life is a mystery"

Dan Croy, Greater Las Vegas Area, NV

Recreation and Leisure Services
DOB: July 1982
OUT: Realized I was gay in the spring of '95 (Jr. High showers A-HA! It was me!),embraced it in 97, came out to my friends and everyone else in the fall of 2000,came out to my parents in late 2001. My mother was reaaaaallllly not OK with it,and still isn?t?so it?s sort of like the ?don?t ask don?t tell? thingthe military does. Meh, whatever :oP

"It is better to be hated for who you are than loved for who you are not."
-Phlostigin Verdigris

Brandon Sorlie, New York, NY

Elementary School Teacher
D OB: February 1981
OUT: April 1998 (friends)
August 1998 (family)

Summer Morse, San Diego, CA

Event and Community outreach coordinator
DOB: April 1970
OUT: Verbally 1985
It's hard to answer when I came out. I knew I loved women when I was 6 years old. I remember lying on the grass in my ghetto neighborhood and looking up at the sky and having a convers ation with myself about how I was going to tell my family that I loved women. Had a girl friend in elementary, jr high and high school. So when did I come out?

Sean Pollock, New York, NY

Artistic Director
DOB: DOB: April 1967
OUT: told first person in 7th grade; outed at age 17
Being Gay is one of the greatest gifts I've been given in this life!
www.bearcreeknyc.com

Josh Hammers, Norman, OK

Student
DOB: DOB: April 1981
OUT: June 2000
"To do what ought to be done but would not have been done unless I did it. I thought to be my duty."
- Robert Morrison

Mark Phillips, Knoxville, TN

Orthopedic Traction Tech/Mental Health Worker/CNA
DOB: September 1963
OUT: Roughly 1984
I know that I'm sane...All of the voices tell me so!

Audra M. King, Iowa City, IA

(originally, Philadelphia, PA with stops in between)
DOB: August 1974
OUT: 19 (1993) as bi; 21 (1995) as a lesbian
The first two years were friends only.
1995 I came out to my mom and brother.
Never told my dad.
"What it takes to cross the great divide/seems more than all the courage I can muster up inside/ although we get to have some answers when we reach the other side/the prize is always worth the rocky ride."- Indigo Girls (Emily Saliers), "The Wood Song"
www.geocities.com/audie.geo

Kevin Casey, Minneapolis, MN

Production Stage Manager
DOB: June 1951
OUT: June 1976

Dave Adams, Zion Grove, PA

Retail Management
DOB: December 1971
OUT: 1998
I came out, believe it or not, because of my church. I belong to the United Church of Christ, one of the more liberal and progressive denominations. Through the support offered by the UCC Coalition for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Concerns, I realized that even though not everyone I knew would understand or accept my sexuality, I was still a loved child of God. So in early 1998 I began coming out to my friends within my church family. Things have been wonderful. At this time, I am the co-ordinator for my Conference's chapter of the Coalition.

It's never too late to be what you might have been'. From that I take that it's never too late to step out into the light and be your true self.
-George Eliot

David McCallum, Portland, ME

Computer Repair Technician
DOB: July 1980
OUT: July 2004
"Living life in a lie is no life at all, so why not tell the truth?"

Illia Lopes

Domestic Engineer
DOB: December 1955
OUT: I came out as a Mom of my gay son in 2000

Jason Lustina, Costa Mesa, CA

Fundraising Director
DOB: October 1978
OUT: December 1999
"Life may not always seem bright but if the sun can shine after the darkest storm . . . SO CAN YOU!!!"
- Unknown

Cheryl Repass, San Jose, CA

Student
DOB: Septmber 1988
OUT: To close friends in 2004 LGBT Supporter: 2001
If it weren't for my ex boyfriend who came out to me, I probably wouldn't have been supportive of the LGBT, but helping him through it made me open my eyes and look in a different view. Him and I are still very close, and now he's helping me through it.

Jordan Giesemann, Wisconsin

Student
DOB: February 1989
OUT: Fall of 2002
I am a 15 year old high school student who is desperatley attempting the make my community become aware of harrassment on gay students. I live with my mom, dad, brother and cousin who support me all very much. I love to read gay literature, right screenplays and go on hte occasional date.
"Remember who you are."-Mufasa

Ian Mateo, Milwaukee, WI

Recent College Grad
DOB: April 1982
OUT: March 1999
My best friend from high school actually came out to me first right before I came out to him. It was quite shocking for both of us! I still haven't come out to my family because living as an only child in a strict and conservative Filipino family makes it harder to do so. I wonder how my mom doesn't even realize anything since she always asks me for fashion advice!

Quincey Roisum, Duluth, MN

Host, gas station cashier, college student
DOB: November 1984
OUT: Officially January 2004
"Live happy, fight for what's right. The world moves pretty fast if you don't stop and look around once and awhile you could miss it! To see life you must first see past the end of your nose."

Jonathan King, Baltimore, MD

Gay Newbie, Computer Technician
DOB: September 1980
OUT: October 2004
"Share what you know ~ learn what you don't!"

Paul A. Foley, Takoma Park, Maryland

Travel Agent
DOB: October 1966
OUT: September 1987
users.starpower.net/wooflix
If homosexuality is a disease, let's all call in queer to work: "Hello. Can't work today, still queer." ~Robin Tyler

Michael Simons, Brisbane, Australia

Fulltime University Student and Mobile Phone Salesman
DOB: January 1983
OUT: December 8th 2004 to Family, August 2001 to Friends.
"Individually, we are one, united we are unstoppable". Live life not being ashamed of who you are or what you want to become. Every person in this world is special in their own unique way, it is the right of every individual to be free to live their life as they choose and nobody has the right to take away that privelige. Stand up for what you believe in remembering your opinion will always count for somet hing, as everybody has something beautiful to give to the world.

Jay Proto, New Haven , CT

Clerk/Typist
DOB: February 1985
OUT: June 2003

Charlie Trainer

Writer/Sales
DOB: December 1963
OUT: August 1990
" I ain't what I ought to be, I ain't what I want to be; but, thank God I ain't what I used to be!"
Rev.Dr. M.L. King, Jr.
www.thegaygardener.com

Reggie Glover, Concord, New Hampshire

General Manager - Bus Transportation Company
DOB: October "Too Old To Feel This Young"
OUT: Friends-1990 / Family- 2005
I knew I was gay at 14. I came from a conservative Catholic background and tried my best to fit in. I tried to re-engineer myself straight by getting married and having 2 children. It didn't work. I divorced, met a won derful guy and feel in love in 1990. I came out to only 2 or 3 close friends. I came out to my six siblings and two children in early 2005. They accepted it gracefully - they said they always suspected by my lifestyle - nice townhouse, fancy bed skirts with throw pillows every where, fancy china, etc! God, life is so wonderful when you can be truthful with everyone. Thanks Wes, to you and the Boy Meets Boy show, for opening my eyes. No more guilt, lies, or desperation!

Dean Doser, Paris, France

(San Diego, California native)
Writer & Designer
DOB: June 1960
OUT: June 1969 (to myself) September 1982 to my mom and through her, the world.
"Being gay isn't always easy, but it sure is a lot more fun."
Thanks for being there for us.

David Michael Conner, Washington, DC

Writer, Painter, Student
DOB: May 1978
OUT: 1996
Life in chapters: www.davidmichaelconner.com

John Monya, Spokane, WA

Building Maintenance Specialist / Politics
DOB: May 28
OUT: leisurely and gradual over the past few years beginning in 2001
"Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly, and applying all the wrong remedies!"
— Groucho Marx

Sean Pollock, New York, NY

Artistic Director
DOB: April 1967
OUT: told first person in 7th grade; outed at age 17
"Being Gay is one of the greatest gifts I've been given in this life."
www.bearcreeknyc.com

Chris Pierson, Corona, CA

Associate Manager for Regal Entertainment
DOB: January 1986
OUT: Summer 2004

Ronald Liz, Lake Worth FL & Queens, NY

Student/freelance Model
DOB: July 1986
OUT: December 2000
I was only 14 and the first person I told was mother.. " After comming out you still eat, sleep, and love the same way.So why should it matter."

Ged Chapa, Los Angeles CA

Salesperson
DOB: July 1986
OUT: December 2000
I came out to my family and friends when i met the man i am to spend my life with. My personal experience has showed me that whoever loves you for Real will put no condition to that love. Gay, Bi or Straight, all relationships are based on respect. I am gay because i am able to fall in love with a man and that only involves two people. I did not study to be gat I was born Gay and have to be accepted and loved like that. just like i love and accept all others.

CJ Ratliff, Lexington, KY

Student/Interior Designer
DOB: March 1982
OUT: March 2000 (ON MY 18th BIRTHDAY!!)
www.myspace.com/cjratliff

Dan Schlazer, Boca Raton, FL

Retail Manager
DOB: March 1974
OUT: October 1996
There is no time for later, it may never come. The time is now!

Jeff Myles, Halifax, NS

Software Sales
DOB: May 1978
OUT: August 2004

Scott Cosgrove, Ontario, Canada

Operation Expert
DOB: November 1972
OUT: June 26, 1993
If You Cant Ride The Waves Of Life...You Can Learn To Surf.

Richard Mento, Los Angeles, CA

Casting Director
DOB: July 1973
OUT: Out in the world in June 1996. out to my family in June 2003.
www.myspace.com/46659645

Jeff Doty, Tampa, FL

Real Estate
DOB: November 1965 (send gifts please)
OUT: January 1982 - over 24 years and still with the love of my life.
www.JeffDoty.com

W. D. Neumann, Austin, TX

911 Dispatcher
DOB: June 1964
OUT: July 6, 1993
www.myspace.com/dntx911

Miller Hung, Dallas TX

Graphic designer/ business partner of "Diva in a Box"
DOB: August 1974
OUT: February 1999
My mother once said to me "The one thing you could ever do that would disappoint me greatly is to be in a relationship with someone you don't love." Thank you mom and to each and every one of you who stands proud and true to who you are.
www.divainabox.com

Olivier Richaud, Montpellier, France

Company Trainer
DOB: February 1969
OUT: 1996
I was out just a few weeks after meeting Jeff. I knew he was the man of my life. That was 10 years ago.

David Brezniak, Woonsocket, RI

Banking/Finance
DOB: November 1971
OUT: Sometime in 1992 just after I turned 21 :)
Take each day as a gift. Cherish each new friend you make. We were not placed here to hate, regardless of race, beliefs, orientation or attitude. Live each day to it's fullest.

A special Thanks to Ray McCauley, an old friend. I would not be here today if it weren't for his knowledge and friendship. We will cross paths again someday, my friend.

Mark Schlagel, Cherokee Village, AR (when not roaming the globe)

Real Estate Investor
DOB: July 1967
OUT: 1992

Max Bever, Chicago, IL

Student/Intern
DOB: August 1985
OUT: September 2000
I was the only out student in the history of my Catholic Prepatory School; but my schoolmates embraced me, and I was even nominated for Prom King.

Dean Deason, Charlotte, NC

Physician
DOB: August 1966
OUT: OUT to my mother 10/07/2000 She said it was no big deal, that she had already figured out, as had most everyone else so it was more of a non-event. It was important to me just to be honest with myself and those around me.

Kevin Ancell, Memphis, TN

Hotelier/Hospitality
DOB: February 1967
OUT: June 1985
"Live your life honestly, proudly, and purposefully." - Kevin Ancell

Kevin Ancell, Memphis, TN

Hotelier/Hospitality
DOB: February 1967
OUT: June 1985
"Live your life honestly, proudly, and purposefully." - Kevin Ancell

Thomas Cassidy, Dedham, Massachusetts

Event Server
DOB: March 1981
OUT: Long time ago (14 yrs old)
www.myspace.com/justtom2003

Patrick, San Diego, CA

Hard Money Lending Firm
DOB: October 1987
OUT: April 15, 2002
"Our college just completed a new three-story building. While walking down a hall on the 2nd floor, I overheard two students say, “I really like the skylights on the 3rd floor.” “Me too,” remarked the second student. “I don’t know why they didn’t just put some on the 2nd floor too.”

Phil Gagnon, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Librarian
DOB: September 1966
OUT: June 26, 1992
Those who think only of themselves will be left to themselves

Brian Chin, San Jose, CA

Admistrative aide
DOB: March 1978
OUT: 2003
"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."

Alexis Andrashi, Newport Beach, CA

Makeup Artist
DOB: July 1980
OUT: When I was 18
Being gay has been one of the biggest blessings in my life

Alonzo Adams, Oklahoma City, OK

Freelance Photographer
DOB: December 1976
OUT: 1998
"Don't judge a book by its cover. www.alonzoadamsphotography.com

Ethan M. Claude, West Haven, CT

Sales
DOB: April 1972
OUT: June 1992
Came out when I met the guy I thought I would be with forever, seemed like right time to do it. I was lucky my family accepted it well, of course at first they thought maybe it was a phase I was going through but they came to realize it was my life and they welcomed my decision. I have been out for almost 16 years now, the boyfriend is gone and more have come and gone, but I'm happy being who I am and I know someone will soon come into my life that will be happy with me by their side. So to all who are afraid or ashamed to come out, don't be, it will be one of the greatest joys for you in the long run, being who you are is always the best choice.

Scott Hollywood, The Woodlands, TX

Federal Officer
DOB: October 1980
OUT: 1997

Jason Baldino, Boise, ID

Student
DOB: January 1982
OUT: To self: October 1997
:)

Jeremy Jenkins, Atlanta, GA

Creative Coordinator
DOB: July 1984
OUT: September 2003
My frat brother whose also my best friend came out during a fraternity meeting and one mot, so he always jokes about it and says I snuck out of the closet while he jumped out.

Gant Adams, Smyrna, GA

Commercial Banker
DOB: January 1972
OUT: To self: October 1984 / To others: September 1995