Coming Out To Your MAGA-Hat Wearing Dad
The Art of Coming Out To a Conservative
Thinking about coming out to your father who supports Trump and wears a "Make America Great Again" hat? First things first: Read our guide, "How To Come Out To Homophobic Parents."
We understand the challenges that come with this situation, but remember that being true to yourself is essential to your well-being. Here are some tips and tricks to help you navigate this tough conversation.
Assessing the Situation: Understanding Your Father's Political Views and Beliefs
Before coming out to your father, it's important to consider his beliefs and political views. It's essential to approach this conversation with empathy and understanding, recognizing that his beliefs don't define him as a person. Here are three ways to phrase this:
- "I know that my father has conservative beliefs and may hold traditional views of marriage, but I hope he'll see past that."
- "My father's political views may differ from my own, but I know he loves me and will want to support me."
- "While my father may be a Trump supporter, I know he raised me to be true to myself, and I hope he'll see that."
Building a Support Network and Practicing What You Want to Say
Before coming out, it's crucial to build a support network and practice what you want to say. Having people who love and support you can make a world of difference.
Choosing the Right Time and Place to Have the Conversation
Choosing the right time and place to come out to your father is crucial. It's essential to avoid public places or times of high tension and ensure that you have enough time to talk through any concerns or questions.
The Conversation: Being Honest and Addressing Concerns
When coming out to your father, it's essential to be honest and straightforward. Be prepared to address any concerns or questions he may have and remember that this conversation is not about changing his beliefs. Here are three ways to phrase this:
- "Dad, I need to tell you that I'm gay. It's a significant part of who I am, and I hope you'll accept me for who I am."
- "I know that my sexual orientation may be a surprise, but I hope we can have an open and honest conversation about it."
- "I'm telling you this because I want to be true to myself, and I hope that you can support me."
Coping with the Outcome: Preparing for Different Reactions
It's essential to prepare for different reactions when coming out to your father. Some fathers may be accepting, while others may not be. Remember that you're not alone and that seeking professional help if needed is always an option. Here are three ways you can talk to yourself about this:
- "I'm preparing myself for any reaction my father may have, whether it's positive or negative."
- "I know that coming out can be challenging, and I'm reaching out to resources that can help me cope with any negative reactions."
- "If my father doesn't accept me for who I am, I know that I have a community of people who will love and support me."
Coming out to a Trump-loving, MAGA hat-wearing father can be a daunting task. However, being true to yourself is essential to your well-being, and having this conversation can be a significant milestone in your life.
Remember to approach this conversation with empathy and understanding, build a support network, choose the right time and place, be honest and straightforward, and prepare for different reactions.
And always remember, you're not alone. Here are some additional resources to help you navigate this tough conversation:
- The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
- PFLAG: https://pflag.org/
- Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/
Seeking Expert Advice
It's important to seek expert advice when it comes to navigating conversations about sexual orientation and political beliefs. Here are some experts' thoughts on this topic:
- Dr. Ryan DeLapp, a licensed psychologist, says that "It's important to remember that political beliefs don't define a person's character. When coming out, it's essential to approach the conversation with empathy and understanding, recognizing that the other person may need time to process their emotions."
- Brad Sears, founding executive director of the Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law, states that "Coming out can be a challenging experience, especially when dealing with family members who hold different beliefs. However, having an open and honest conversation can help build stronger relationships."
- Alex Roque, a licensed clinical social worker, suggests that "Preparing yourself for different outcomes is essential when coming out. Seeking support from friends, family, or community resources can help you cope with any negative reactions."
Remember that seeking help from a professional can be beneficial, and there are many resources available to help you navigate this conversation.
RESOURCES
Websites & Organizations:
The Trevor Project
https://www.thetrevorproject.org
Trevor Project on Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiDiRlY0n9UDno1O7fswzzg
Trevor Project Coming Out Handbook
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/guide/the-coming-out-handbook/
GLSEN Coming Out Handbook
https://www.glsen.org/activity/coming-out-resource-lgbtq-students
PFLAG
https://pflag.org/resource/comingoutbooks/
HRC Coming Out Resources for gay men
https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-out
Matthew Shepard Coming Out Resources
https://www.matthewshepard.org/coming-out-resources/
Coming Out Later In Life
https://www.lgbtagingcenter.org/resources/resources.cfm?s=31
https://psychcentral.com/health/coming-out-later-in-life
Misc
https://lgbtqia.ucdavis.edu/support/coming-out
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-come-out
https://www.campuspride.org/resources/how-to-come-out-on-campus/
CDC
https://www.cdc.gov/lgbthealth/youth-resources.htm
Coming Out For Teens
https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/coming-out.html
Stony Brook
https://www.stonybrookmedicine.edu/LGBTQ/tips-for-coming-out
LGBT Hotline
BuzzFeed LGBTQ+ on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/BuzzFeedLGBTQ/
Books:
The Other Side of the Closet: The Coming-Out Crisis for Straight Spouses and Families
https://www.amazon.com/Other-Side-Closet-Coming-Out-Straight-ebook/dp/B00DNL3K5U/
Coming Out: Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgendered: The Complete Guide to Coming Out of The Closet, Finding Support, and Thriving in Your New Life (Am I ... i think i'm gay, self-acceptance Book 1)
https://www.amazon.com/Coming-Out-Bisexual-Transgendered-self-acceptance-ebook/dp/B011F6DXV0/
Coming Out: I Think I'm Gay ~ The Ultimate Guide to Self-Acceptance, Coming Out, Building a Support System, and Loving Your New Life ~ ( How to Come Out of the Closet )
https://www.amazon.com/Coming-Out-Ultimate-Self-Acceptance-Building-ebook/dp/B00KSGY87W/
Oh S#*t! I Think I'm Gay: A coming out book
https://www.amazon.com/Oh-Think-Im-Gay-coming-ebook/dp/B08J9S2YH5/
Mom and Dad, I’m gay: Coming Out of the Closet
https://www.amazon.com/Mom-Dad-Im-gay-Coming-ebook/dp/B00VZ7Z4KI/
Coming out of the Closet
https://www.amazon.com/Coming-out-Closet-Dick-Parker-ebook/dp/B06Y5Z47SJ/
OMG My Son is GAY "Why is my Son Gay? How You Can Help Your Kid Coming Out of The Closet and Keep Him Safe" The Ultimate Guide for Parents of Gay Children
https://www.amazon.com/OMG-My-Son-GAY-Ultimate-ebook/dp/B0080QPVZU/
Cleaning Out My Closet: A Real-Life Guide To Coming Out To Family And Friends
https://www.amazon.com/Cleaning-Out-My-Closet-Real-Life-ebook/dp/B00R2TOP0I/
