COuCH stands for Come Out Come Home, a community initiative by Sayoni.
COuCH is a movement to encourage and support LGBTQ persons and allies to Come Out or be (more) out. In particular, we hope to reach LGBTQ persons who are or are trying to be ready to Come Out.
This movement is inspired by studies which have shown that there are many positive effects when LGBTQ persons Come Out. COuCH is also about celebrating the people – families, friends, and/or peers – who love, accept and support LGBTQ people; and thus encourage LGBTQ people to be out.
COuCH aims to empower and provide visibility to the LGBTQ community and our allies. This helps the world understand that LGBTQ people are part of and play many different roles in society.
LGBTQ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer.
We are all-inclusive but for convenience, we use the word “queer” as an umbrella term for individuals whose sexuality and/or gender do not fall into the mainstream mold.
An ally is someone who is not LGBTQ but who supports, loves and accepts their LGBTQ friends, family and co-workers. They also believe that LGBTQ should have equal rights and fair treatment. Allies can also be organisations, companies or groups of people.
Coming Out is a process, and coming out to yourself is the first step. Coming Out to yourself is about acknowledging same-gender attractions; putting a name to the feelings or thoughts you are experiencing. This may mean identifying as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or queer, and letting people know that.
Disclosure can be a major milestone in a person’s life. Studies have shown that self-acceptance and disclosure contribute positively to a person’s mental and emotional wellbeing.
By Coming Out, it allows the LGBTQ person to be open and honest about who they are, thereby enabling greater communication to facilitate better relationships at work and at home.
By Coming Out and being a visible member of the community, you are making a difference in creating social change and acceptance. In the long run, the more out people are, the more positive public attitudes are likely to be.
Must everyone Come Out? Am I ready to Come Out?
Coming Out is a personal experience and every queer person’s journey is unique. Hearing other people’s Coming Out stories can give you ideas or inspiration to plan your own Coming Out. Come Out only when you are ready and prepared for it.
How can I be a part of this movement?
Thanks for taking time to consider how you may help. Please refer to our Participate page to find out more!
What are the resources & support available if I want to Come Out?
We’re so happy to hear you’re thinking about Coming Out. Please check out our section on Resources to find more help and support.
I think my relative / friend / someone I care about might be LGBTQ. How do I let them know it is safe to Come Out to me?
Visit http://www.hrc.org/resources/
www.sayoni.com
