Administration of Joseph R. Biden, Jr., 2021

October 11, 2021

Today we celebrate National Coming Out Day and the courage of LGBTQ+ people who live their lives with pride, create community with open arms and hearts, and showcase the strength of being your authentic self. Today, and every day, I want every member of the LGBTQ+ community to know that you are loved and accepted just the way you are, regardless of whether or not you've come out.

My administration is committed to ensuring that LGBTQ+ people can live openly, proudly, and freely in every corner of our Nation. I am proud to lead an administration with LGBTQ+ officials serving openly at the highest levels of Government and prouder that together we have made historic progress advancing protections and equal opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community. From acting on day one to prevent and combat discrimination, to enabling all qualified Americansâincluding transgender Americansâto serve their country in uniform, to defending the human rights of LGBTQ+ people around the world, my administration has been clear that we will continue to champion the dignity, equality, and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community.

Despite the extraordinary progress our Nation has made, our work to ensure the full promise of equality is not yet done. Anti-LGBTQ+ bills still proliferate in State legislatures. Bullying and harassmentâparticularly of young transgender Americans and LGBTQ+ people of colorâstill abounds, diminishing our national character. We must continue to stand together against these acts of hate and stand up to protect the rights, opportunities, physical safety, and mental health of LGBTQ+ people everywhere. From defeating discriminatory bills to passing the Equality Act, we have more work to do to ensure that every American can live free of fear, harassment, and discrimination because of who they are or whom they love.

To LGBTQ+ people across the country and especially those who are contemplating coming out: know that you are loved for who you are, you are admired for your courage, and you will have a communityâand a nationâto welcome you. My administration will always have your back, and we will continue fighting for the full measure of equality, dignity, and respect you deserve.

NOTE: The statement referred to H.R. 5.

Categories: Statements by the President : National Coming Out Day.

Subjects: Armed Forces, U.S. : Servicemembers :: Service and dedication; Civil rights : Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender persons, equality; Holidays and special observances : National Coming Out Day; Legislation, proposed : Equality Act.

DCPD Number: DCPD202100840.

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