COMING OUT EXPERIENCE FROM AN ALLY MEMBER OF THE BAR: Our prior intern was non-binary ahead of a gender transition, and it opened my eyes to some poor treatment LGBTQ+ people face even in our own community.
COMING OUT EXPERIENCE FROM OUR PRESIDENT: I feel like I am always “coming out” to colleagues and other members of the legal profession. I think people presume, based on the way I look and dress, that I’m straight. New colleagues usually learn I’m queer when I reference “my girlfriend” or “my partner” or by just showing up with her at an event. I am very aware at every new event I go to with my lady on my arm that I am “coming out” once again. There is a slight apprehension I feel. But, I know who I am, I an honored to be in a relationship with an amazing woman, and being who I am in all circles is worth it. I honestly think it was worse when I was single and there was no easy way to work in “I’m gay!” into a conversation. I mean, I can only wear so many rainbows, and even then they probably think I’m just an ally. Prior to being partnered there were many times I felt invisible as a queer woman in social settings. Being a straight-looking queer woman is definitely challenging. Renee E. Lewis
OTHER COMING OUT STORIES / EXPERIENCES HERE – You may post anonymously!! Please email to nmlgbtqassn@gmail.com We are featuring coming out stories / experiences on on Website for all of October!
Safe Coming Out Resources and other resources:
The Trevor Project’s Coming Out Handbook
In Newly Found Audio, A Forgotten Civil Rights Leader Says Coming Out ‘Was An Absolute Necessity’
Other LGBTQIA+ Bars and advocacy:
Article: Remembering How Gay Lawyers Became Legal
Article: Welcoming the Invisible Bar: Gay and Lesbian Attorneys
Other coming out stories (not necessarily legal-related:
NEW MEXICO LGBTQ+ BAR ASSOCIATION 