Coming out is often a journey with a shared destination and a personal story for the LGBTQ+ community.
This weekend marks the kick-off of OURFest. Philly’s Coming Out Day Celebration in Center City.
“Ever since I was a kid, I knew exactly who I was,” Patrick Crofton said.
Crofton grew up in South Africa before moving to Philadelphia. Now 74 years old, he remembers what life was like before he came out.
“You know I was bullied, but I was kind of accepted as the sissy of the school and had friends who looked out for me a little bit too,” Crofton said. “I was in very fortunate circumstances. I had an understanding mother.”
October 11 is National Coming Out Day, celebrating and supporting the first step of those in the LGBTQ+ community sharing their authentic selves with others.
CBS Philadelphia
“Coming out is still a delicate matter for so many people,” said Tyrell Brown, executive director of Galaei and Philly Pride 365. “Sometimes National Coming Out Day is truly the first time people can truly, deeply and authentically express themselves. .”
Brown hosts the second annual OURfest Weekend. A vibrant celebration of coming out, pride, resilience and unity taking place in the heart of Philadelphia on Saturday and Sunday.
“OURfest, which stands for ‘Our Uniting Resilience,” commemorates National Coming Out Day and LGBTQIA+ History Month by bringing the community together for a weekend of activities, performances and celebrations. This event aims to amplify the voices of LGBTQIA+ individuals, honor their diverse experiences and instill a spirit of inclusivity and solidarity.”
The National Coming Out Parade starts Saturday, October 12 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The parade will feature a colorful display of curated floats, community organizations and live performances. Participants will march from 5th and Market to Broad and Locust, showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community.
On Sunday, October 13, from noon to 7 p.m., the Gayborhood comes alive with one of the largest outdoor festivals of the year. The event will include a commodity fair, family-friendly programming, food trucks, beer gardens and multiple stages featuring local artists, entertainers and community speakers.
“This weekend is really a big hurrah and a big welcome mat for people to come out,” Brown said. “An opportunity for people to be their authentic selves; to celebrate, to laugh, to enjoy.”
