How to Throw a Party for National Coming Out Day

National Coming Out Day, celebrated every October 11, is a time for honoring gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people who wish to share their lifestyles with everyone. Many organizations plan charity events or great parties on National Coming Out Day. Get in the spirit and throw your own National Coming Out Day party. Here's how.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Pick a venue. The location for this kind of party is key because you need enough room for everyone who may attend. You'll also need to make sure the venue's owner will not harass any of your guests.
2. Plan the theme. Going with something traditionally associated with the gay rights movement, such as rainbows, probably is the easiest. People will recognize the party and know what it's about. You can make everyone feel welcome with the right theme.
3. Have mentors on hand. Although you're throwing a party, you may have some people who are emotional because they do not feel support for their sexual orientation among co-workers or family members. Recruit a few solid members of the local gay community or a therapist or two to attend the party in case anyone needs to talk.
4. Invite sparingly. Having a National Coming Out Day party is fine, but you have to be aware of the potential for people who are not as supportive. Announcing the party openly--unless you will have a security force there--could invite trouble. Instead, spread the word among people you know to cut down on the possibility of party crashers.

Tips & Warnings

• If something seems amiss, call the police immediately. Hate crimes are real. Don't let a conflict escalate to violence.