SAN ANTONIO -- For the past 31 years, National Coming out Day has been celebrated all across America. San Antonio's LGBT Chamber of Commerce hosted a community celebration Friday in honor of the day.
- San Antonio's LGBT Chamber of Commerce held event
- Members of the LGBTQ+ community shared their stories
"The fact of the matter is that our community does need resources just like anybody else," said Robert Salcido, the executive director of Pride San Antonio.
San Antonio's LGTB Chamber of Commerce says sharing a safe and solid ground now, will help someone like Taylor Kinsel reflect and help others later.
"I came up with the name Taylor with help from my friend around 8th grade or so, when I was really starting to question who my identity and who I am as a person," said Kinsel.
Just a few years ago, Kinsel, like many, found herself stuck in a hard place with no idea where to go next.
"Middle school was a very confusing time," said Kinsel. "This was a time when I was questioning, and I was worried if I was to come out as trans, say I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin that he would disown me, a common fear amongst LGBT youth."
After years of back and forth, Kinsel finally found relieve after hearing these words from her father.
"He says whether you’re gay, trans, or what, you’re still my kid and I love you no matter what. And so, all in all coming out was like, I don’t want to compare it to a miracle but it sort of felt like because of one little thing that happened by chance, I’ve managed to become more confident as a person today," said Kinsel.
Kinsel is now sharing her story to help other young people who may also be facing the same struggles.
She tells other teenagers it may be tough at times, but there is a family ready to help and accept you for who you are.