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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Gay Alliance Hosts Coming Out Day

From Staff And Wire Reports

About a dozen North Idaho gays and lesbians, along with their parents and friends, stepped through a free-standing doorway and out of a symbolic closet at North Idaho College.

Wednesday’s event was sponsored by the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Alliance of North Idaho College and marked the first Coeur d’Alene observance of National Coming Out Day.

Going public is a relief and boosts the self-esteem of homosexuals, said Sherry Frostad, president of the NIC alliance. It also is a way for heterosexuals to announce their support of gay friends and relatives.

The “coming out” attracted no protesters or hecklers, although some people passing by wondered what it was all about.

“A lot of people are fearful about doing this, or are afraid to see us doing it,” Frostad said.

More women than men stepped through the doorway Wednesday. Frostad said coming out seems easier for women than men.

“In this society, in this community, it’s really difficult for men,” she said. “Women are allowed to show more affection in society. Girls are allowed to hold hands. Men can’t do that.” , DataTimes