On 11 October we mark the National Coming Out Day with the aim not only to celebrate the coming out of LGBT people but also to call attention to and raise awareness on the rights and needs of LGBT+ people.

In the City of Ljubljana we are aware of how important it is for an individual to live in the open, not having to hide his/her sexual orientation or sexual identity and to be able to live fully. Social marginalisation or insufferable comfort of privacy can namely evoke feelings of hatred and unacceptability of one’s own sexual orientation and sexual identity which mostly leads to psychological distress.

Therefore it is immensely important there are safe spaces available where an LGBT+ person can go to. A space where a person can start the process of changing one’s own sexual orientation and sexual identity and at the same time slowly reveal oneself to others. Non-governmental organisations are creating safe spaces by organising educational, cultural and social events where gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgender and queer people acquire new and develop existing knowledge and skills important for the empowerment of an individual for a free, autonomous and dignified life.

We congratulate all of you coming out in the colours of the rainbow and if you are only starting the process we wish you courage and a supportive environment.

More information on our activities in the LGBT area and contacts for non-governmental organisations are available in the LGBT column on our website.