AWARE welcomes the Come Out, Come Home movement (COuCH) launched by queer rights group Sayoni.

COuCH seeks to encourage and support LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) persons in Singapore to come out and to feel comfortable about their sexuality.

AWARE supports this effort because we respect the right of every individual to live the life they want. This includes the right to live freely and happily as an LGBTQ person. Sexual orientation is just one facet of an individual, no different from the many other facets such as gender, ethnicity, and religious belief.

As a nation, Singapore does not judge or discriminate against anyone because of their gender, ethnicity, or religion. Similarly, we should not judge or discriminate against anyone because of their sexual orientation.

While social norms are changing and there is growing acceptance of LGBTQ persons, it continues to be difficult for many to be open about their sexuality. This is not healthy. Studies show that self-acceptance and disclosure contribute positively to a person’s mental and emotional wellbeing.

The COuCH movement, launched on 3 August, will culminate on 11 October  – International Coming Out Day.

During this period, LGBTQ persons are encouraged to sign a pledge to come out before or on International Coming Out Day, and to share on the COuCH website their experience of coming out to their family, friends, or colleagues.

Allies – those who accept, support, and love their LGBTQ relatives, friends and colleagues – are also encouraged to make their stand known.