Gabriella Pizzolo Instagram – This is me, at 12 years old, performing in our country’s capital at the White House (with a recreation drawn by the one and only Alison Bechdel). I don’t remember the whole day entirely, though I do remember knowing how important it was to be sharing the story that I was to the people of the United States. This story was one that resonated deeply within me, even as a kid. It was a story about a child learning for the first time that they may be different – and feeling empowered by that feeling. What people on social media may not realize about me is: working for LGBTQ rights has been a part of my history since I was young. And now, years later, I am so glad that I can take pride in being the person that I have become. But I am even more grateful that I had that assurance and acceptance from the time I was 12 years old. It makes me sad that I consider myself lucky for that. I am endlessly grateful that coming out has been an experience I’ve had more than once, and in more than one way. I want to wish everyone a very happy National Coming Out day; it’s a day that enjoy celebrating with the people I love. I hope you, my friend, get to do the same today, no matter who you are.