Woman Vents to Redditors Over Homophobic Remarks Made by Her Family at Christmas
This brave girl came out publicly after her family made some homophobic remarks at a Christmas party.
Back in the '90s, there were no conversations about homosexuality. People didn't know what it meant or how to understand those who identified as homosexual. They did not feel the need to talk about something they did not understand and believed would be better left untouched.
At that time, being homosexual was taboo, even among family members. However, nowadays, it's not the same; society has evolved to be more accepting of homosexuals. Even though it is becoming more widely accepted, many people still feel uncomfortable with or do not understand homosexuality.
This can make the coming-out process difficult for individuals who identify as homosexual, as well as for family members who must accept a loved one's sexuality. Since some people come out as homosexual at a very early stage of life, such as in middle school or high school, it has become apparent that family members struggle with accepting their sexuality.
One of the biggest challenges is informing the family about how to refer to them and other homosexuals. The process can be even more complicated when you have traditional and conservative parents who do not understand homosexuality and view it as a disease or mental illness—something to be ashamed of.
They often do not know how to talk about it, especially since most parents of this generation were raised with the belief that homosexuality was a sin. For family members to become more educated and provide their children with helpful advice and support when coming out, they must first understand that homosexuality is normal.
Leaving a place where we do not feel valued is completely fine, whether it is at a friend's or family member's home.
lovemycar66It is truly sad that even today, some people have to think twice before speaking their hearts out in front of their family.
lovemycar66Sometimes it is better to let go of family if they don’t accept who you are.
lovemycar66
You don't have to deal with anyone who doesn't make you feel comfortable, regardless of the circumstances.
lovemycar66
It is because of homophobic individuals that homosexuals struggle to have their identities accepted.
lovemycar66
I'm surprised that this girl had to hide her sexuality and her girlfriend just to be accepted for a family dinner.
lovemycar66
The people during Grandma's time were the ones who began the fight for equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community.
lovemycar66
Big hugs for standing up for who you are and for your partner; more power to this girl!
lovemycar66
No explanation is needed for leaving a place that does not make you feel comfortable and where sexist and racist remarks are made.
lovemycar66
Family members are the first people who should respect the homosexual individuals in their family.
lovemycar66
This revolution started way back in the late '60s, and the fight has only become more difficult since then.
lovemycar66
It is sad to see that something that should be naturally accepted by all has to be fought for.
lovemycar66
Being from a different time is no excuse for making racist and sexist comments to one's own family member.
lovemycar66
With age, people should become more accepting and open-minded, not the other way around.
lovemycar66
Gay couples and homosexual individuals have always existed; it is now that they have begun to stand up for themselves publicly.
lovemycar66
The uncle made the homophobic remarks, but the grandmother is the reason they can't come out even to their own family.
lovemycar66
When there is love among family members, there is no need to be ashamed of coming out to them.
lovemycar66
Leaving without actually offending anyone was a better option than staying there and making them realize how homophobic they are.
lovemycar66
And it all starts with saying little things indirectly to the family to change their minds about homosexuality.
lovemycar66
You are fully responsible for your own happiness; either go all out and be happy or just pretend your whole life.
lovemycar66
That was truly toxic. It's really brave of you to come out publicly and let whoever think whatever they want.
lovemycar66
Good for you for coming out early; now you have more time to enjoy yourself freely with your partner.
lovemycar66
The generation gap is real, but it cannot be an excuse to disrespect other people's opinions. It is okay for elders not to accept our choice of a same-sex partner, but it is not okay to object to it.
Share this story with your friends and family and help them come out publicly and to their families. Give them all the love and support they need to become confident in their identity.
