SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – Springfield will host a heartfelt and empowering event this October to celebrate National Coming Out Day. Sponsored by VINE Sanctuary and the Springfield Library, the Speak Out event invites members of the LGBTQ+ community to share their personal coming-out stories in front of the community, promoting love, acceptance, and unity.
The event will be held on Oct. 11, 5-6:30 p.m., at Comtu Cascade Park in Springfield, Vt., and is free and open to the public
National Coming Out Day, observed annually on Oct. 11, is dedicated to raising awareness of the LGBTQ+ community’s struggles and celebrating the courage it takes to come out as LGBTQ+. It’s a day of unity and acceptance, and the Speak Out event aims to be a shining example of these values.
The event will feature a diverse lineup of speakers sharing their unique coming-out experiences, offering insights, encouragement, and support to those considering or navigating their journey. Attendees can listen to personal stories of triumph, resilience, and the power of authenticity.
Last year’s Speak Out event was an incredible success that left a lasting impact on the town of Springfield. People from all walks of life, including youth, gathered at Comtu Cascade Park to participate with heartfelt stories. The event provided a safe and welcoming platform for individuals to openly share their coming out experiences, fostering a sense of unity and understanding within the community. The overwhelming support and empathy expressed during last year’s event reinforced the importance of creating a space where LGBTQ+ voices are heard and celebrated. This year’s event aims to build upon that success.
Walter Martone, selectboard member of the town of Springfield, said about the Speak Out event, “When I was a young man I’d dream that all the protests, marches, campaigning, fundraising, and more would result in LGBTQ individuals having the same rights and opportunities as all Americans. Now we have same-sex marriage, protections against discrimination in employment and housing, openly LGBTQ individuals elected to public offices, and serving in important positions in the government and private sector. My new dream is that this next generation will realize how fragile these wins are, and how important it is to fight to preserve them. A woman’s right to choose was taken away – our rights could be next. Be aware, get involved, and don’t let them undo what we worked so hard to achieve.”
The Speak Out is a collaborative effort between VINE Sanctuary and the Springfield Library, two organizations deeply committed to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance within the community.
For more information about the “Coming Out Speak Out” event, please follow VINE Sanctuary on social media (@VINESanctuary) for updates and announcements leading up to the event.