So, like, I totally meant to do this on Wednesday, but I like totally didn't have any time and totally forgot until right now. I swear.

Wednesday, October 11th was National Coming Out Day. One thing I've always believed that one should be true to themselves and the ones they love and just be who they are. I understand the anguish and heartache that acknowledging your sexuality and being comfortable enough to express it has on people. I see it everyday.

As a straight person, I will never be faced with the hatred spewed by homophobic bigots. But I will, until the day I die, advocate for equal rights for all people regardless of their sexual orientation.

A few years ago here in Utah, the citizens of this state passed a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. Now mind you, there were already THREE laws passed forbidding same-sex marriage in Utah but still, a constitutional amendment was deemed necessary to "keep the gays in their place." During the campaign against the amendment, many community leaders said that they best thing we can do to combat the amendment was to simply come out. Gay people should come out to their families. Straight people should come out as allies. This simple act of letting people know who you really are or what you really believe in would do much more than anything else could.

So, to celebrate this year's National Coming Out Day & National Coming Out Month, here are two things you can do to help bring equality to all.

Write a letter asking Congress to repeal "Don't Ask, Don't Tell." Although I would hate it if Jesse or Brian went off to fight in any war, having them fight in an unjust one would be even worse. Mind you, this is going against my complete pacifist beliefs but this is one area where the inequity is too huge to ignore.

Download and share HRC's "A Straight Guide to GLBT Americans." I know. It's scary to talk about gay people like they actually exist but the fact is, they do exist and they are real people. They are not scary (except for the drag queens *shudder*). But, here's a guide to give to people who don't know as many gay people as I do. I hear there are some home decorating and fashion tips in the appendix. ;)