Coming Out Survival Kit

[Mia14]

I was thinking that there should be such a kit for people who come out. I'm thinking it should include things like a rainbow bracelet and some inspirational material, maybe even my telephone number or the numbers of other organizations who would offer support.

Any ideas for other things that should be in a Coming-Out Survival Kit? What did you wish you had available when you were first coming out?


P.S. Vanessa, maybe this is something we could put together when we get our SoulForce local group together.

[Zerbie]

I like your idea of a goodie bag. Whether the person is feeling scared and confused like I was, or already feeling good about themselves and confident and secure, a goodie bag is a bright and cheerful and TANGIBLE something they can hold in their hands and hang on to.

Ya know, the HRC has a coming out guidebook on their website. Some commonsense advice, nothing that I found all that exciting. Anyway, ya might wanna contact HRC about getting some hard copies to distribute at group meetings.

You could get some of those little Coming Out guides from HRC, a little rainbow or equality plastic wristband, some stickers, or some rainbow beads, and brochures or business cards for local supportive businesses, bookstores, websites, and other community resources, toss 'em all in a bag and tie it all up with a ribbon. Like, party favors.

[Jennifer5]

sounds good... just put a little 'you're not alone' with a heart and you've got it made

[Lydia]

Originally Posted by Mia14

Any ideas for other things that should be in a Coming-Out Survival Kit? What did you wish you had available when you were first coming out?

A piece of paper with links to gay-friendly websites, especially sites that tie into (any) faith or culture. I know quite a few people whose biggest struggle while coming out was integrating their orientation with their culturalethnic background and/or faith.

[tdogg]

The web sites are a great idea. It would have been helpful to me - I've seen a book about coming out (to read before coming out) but can't remember the name and author right now. Also the book Straight Parent's Gay Children to pass around to family and friends (well, instead of the book maybe a card recommending the book), along with Mel's, Stranger at the Gate.

That could get to be a very expensive package! How about contact information for PFLAG and others who would be available for support via phone or email? And of course, CHOCOLATE!!! The ultimate comfort....sometimes!

[Vanessa White]

Tdogg: You can always be relied upon to consider the chocolate factor- VERY important!! Mia, I love the way that you think about things, and the survival packet/party bag idea is awesome- creative and practical. I am also thinking, in addition to the ideas already talked about, is for our local use, a list for people willing to be included on it of local "Buddies" of sorts, persons that would not mind being contacted for one on one support, activities, etc. Maybe local chapters of PFLAG or other organizations would even be willing to donate items that would go into the bags. This could be a great thing, and I would love to have it happen here locally.

[sbonser04]

I was going to suggest the number of a very special sister that works in campus ministry at our school. i think the most important items in the survival kit would be numbers for support groups/ organizations/ people. i'm one of the lucky ones whose parents said that they loved me no matter what and nothing really changed. how great would it be if you could include that in the kit.

[Vanessa White]

You are so right, parental acceptance in a bottle!

[Jennifer5]

You are so right, parental acceptance in a bottle!

Don't we all wish... but parental acceptance issues go so far, even beyond coming out.

[dewdrop_world]

Where does the toaster oven fit in?

James

[Mia14]

Originally Posted by dewdrop_world

Where does the toaster oven fit in?

James

right in with the kitchen sink!

Would it be a good idea to include some pictures of gay couples and their families? I know it was really hard in the beginning to picture that there was anyone else like me - nevermind happy ones! Maybe some pictures from SoulForce and other organizations of happy GLBT people, couples, and families. Here's that message again that Jennifer mentioned - "You're not alone".

[BruceChris]

Quote:
Originally Posted by dewdrop_world
Where does the toaster oven fit in?

James

right in with the kitchen sink!

Just be sure it's not plugged in, or you're GLBT TOAST!

Peace and Love, BruceChris