We probably all know what it means, but to ensure we are on the same page, Wikipedia defines coming out as “the term used to describe the process by which an individual reveals that s/he is lesbian, gay, or bisexual.” They go on to define two general steps: “The beginning of this process is acceptance of oneself. Following this, openness may occur with family, friends, co-workers, etc.” But as many of us have personally experienced, coming out is not just a single act of defining oneself publicly. It is a pivotal point in one’s life.

The Campaign for Positive Space and Queers on Campus, centred out of the University of Calgary, would like to celebrate this rite of passage by presenting its first annual The Coming Out Monologues on March 19th at Craigie Hall, on the U of C campus.

Nina Anana, Peer Supporter for The Positive Campaign Space Campaign is looking forward “to opening up a discourse for people to discuss their coming out process, and for others that have yet to.” The production is similar at heart to the Eve Ensler’s award winning production, The Vagina Monologues. Individuals have been asked to discuss their coming out stories with the production team and perform their story in front of an audience. Many students and community members have stepped up to the challenge.

“The participants are coming to talk and tell their stories. Some stories will be funny and others will be sad. Most of the stories generate a discussion on how to cope,” Anana adds.

The Campaign for Positive Space is a volunteer run community organization made up of students of the University of Calgary. Its mandate is to create a more welcoming place for all those who study, work and live at the University of Calgary. The Campaign aims to raise awareness of, and addresses, discrimination and harassment based on sexual and gender diversity, which they believe challenges the patterns of silence that continue to marginalize bisexuals, gays, lesbians and transgendered individuals.

Similarly, Queers on Campus is a volunteer run, student based organization—“queer people and allies working together to encourage and promote understanding and acceptance of queer people within the greater student, faculty, and staff community at the University of Calgary.”

Although the organizations that are putting on The Coming Out Monologues are comprised mostly of students, the stories vary generationally. “We want to reach out to the entire community with stories for everybody,” Anana says.

Tickets for this event are only $5.00, and all proceeds go to Calgary Outlink, the charity chosen for this project.

“This is the first of we hope, many more years of The Coming Out Monologues. We can only continue if you can come out and support us.”