Living Out Loud with Darian

I couldn't resist posting Clay Aiken's coming out cover on the new issue of People Magazine. I'm sure you've seen it by now on the million or so blogs that's posted it, so now you can add mine to the bunch. Clay has finally confirmed what we've known all along. There's a lot of harsh talk in the blogosphere about whether or not the gay community should embrace Clay Aiken after vehemently denying that he ever played on our team for so long. This comment from a reader over at Queerty sums it all up...at least for me.

"Yes, it would have been nice if he had come out long ago.But this lack of support (no matter the timing of the coming out) is exactly why more 'visible' gay people don't come out. No, we don't need to bow down and kiss their feet, ignoring all else. But we should show some support and encouragement.If gay celebrities, be they musicians, athletes, politicians, or astronauts, fear the loss of their fans/supporters AND condemnation from the very community to which they are now alligning themselves, why WOULD they take that risk. I know that it takes bravery for every gay person to come out. We all risk rejection. I know that I did. And because I know what that feels like I will be there to encourage those who (finally) find that bravery. And perhaps my welcoming heart will inspire them to inspire someone else to come out earlier, be even braver." -Gayvirgo

Now if only I could get the staff over at People- scratch that-EBONY to get Queen Latifah to come out it would be one for our community to their...shoot I've lost count.