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Rep. Brent recognizes National Coming Out Day

Urges legislative action to protect Ohio's LGBTQ community
October 9, 2020
Juanita O. Brent News

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Juanita Brent (D-Cleveland) recognizes Sunday, Oct. 11 as National Coming Out Day, an annual LBGTQ awareness day designated to celebrate and commend the bravery of all those who have come out as LGBTQ. This year’s observance comes at a time when many are worried about a changing U.S. Supreme Court and its impact on marriage equality and LGBTQ rights.

“The power of coming out is a basic right that everyone deserves to have. This day of awareness helps advance the movement for equality. We must use our voices to condemn the homophobia that thrives in silence. As an ally I will continue to use my voice to advocate for equality and acceptance. Coming out saves lives and I am proud to support the LGBTQ+ community,” said Rep. Brent.

Rep. Brent has co-sponsored three house bills which have been introduced to honor and protect the LGBTQ community during the 133rd General Assembly:

  • HB 369: The Ohio Fairness Act, is a bipartisan bill that would add sexual orientation and gender identity or expression to the laws that make discrimination illegal in Ohio;
  • HB 363: To designate Oct. 11 as Coming Out Day in Ohio;
  • HB 729: To designate June as Pride Month in Ohio

Additionally, House Democrats last year called out then-Speaker Larry Householder for not extending anti-discrimination protections to LGBTQ House employees—the only state employees without explicit protections. House Democrats have made the same request of Speaker Bob Cupp (R-Lima). 

2020 marks the 32nd anniversary of National Coming Out Day, which started during the 1979 National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.