Coming Out
“People Will Be As Comfortable With You As You Are With Yourself.”
Tony Pennacchio, Teacher 2004
One of the most important roles for this book is to support anyone who is thinking about coming out. It makes no difference how old you are or if you are in law enforcement or not; the writers involved in this book are committed to helping you. For me, the desire to come out was always there, but the decision to actually do it was one that took years of contemplation until I finally found the courage to actually do it. It was the most difficult thing I have ever done in my life and it was the best decision I ever made. You are not alone and I invite you to watch the stories from some of our colleagues in the videos below.
Want more stories? The National Law Enforcement Museum in Washington DC produced a series of podcasts for the Law Enforcement Icons collection. Listen to this series featuring LGBTQ+ members of law enforcement.
My offer to you is simple. If you are even thinking about coming out, take advantage of this offer to reach out for support. You can remain completely anonymous and no one will push you. You can ask any question you want. If you are a friend or ally of someone you think is gay and want to know how to provide support, we are here to help. Read more about the coming out process in our special series.
“Great Things Are Possible When You Have The Courage To Be Yourself.”
Michael Sam, NFL Player 2014
The form below comes directly to my email and will not be shared with anyone unless you give me permission to do so. I will respect your wish for confidentiality and privacy. We have writers from every part of the country representing all age groups. If you want to talk to a specific type of person in law enforcement, I will pass your question on. This is not a recruitment effort, but merely an offer to help and provide you with support from someone who knows how important it is.
- If you are in crisis and need to talk with someone right now, please call the LGBTQ crisis hotline at 1-800-273-8255. You can also chat with someone online.
- If you are a young person, you can get help right now at the Trevor Project 1-866-488-7386 or chat online.
- If you a transgender person, please call the TransLifeLine at 1-877-565-8860.
Your privacy is important to us. We will not share your email address or name with anyone. We respect your need for confidentiality. Thank you.