Coming Out Day: Why Visibility Still Matters in Accounting
October 11 is National Coming Out Day — a date that means something a little different to each of us. For some, it’s a celebration of a pivotal moment. For others, it’s a reminder of how far they’ve come, or how far they still hope to go. And for many, it’s simply another day of navigating how much of ourselves we can share and where.
The truth is, coming out isn’t a one-time event. It’s not just the story we tell about when we first said the words out loud. It’s the small, quiet decisions we make over and over — when we start a new job, meet a new client, walk into a conference, or update a professional bio.
Each time, we’re weighing questions:
“Will I be safe here?”
“Will I be respected?”
“Will this change how they see me?”
In the accounting world — a profession that still leans conservative and traditional in many ways — those questions are often louder. And they’re exactly why visibility matters.
Why Visibility Still Matters
When LGBTQIA+ people show up fully as ourselves, we’re doing more than just telling the truth — we’re expanding the space for the next person to do the same. Visibility signals to someone younger or newer in their career that they aren’t alone. It tells closeted colleagues they have support. It challenges clients and peers to think beyond assumptions.
And visibility from allies matters too. When allies introduce themselves with pronouns, wear a small rainbow pin, speak up when someone is misgendered, or simply normalize inclusion in the way they work — they’re helping build the safety net that makes authenticity possible.
You’re Not Alone Here
Coming out — whether for the first time or the fiftieth — takes courage. And courage is easier when you know you’re not doing it alone.
That’s why we built Pride in Numbers — a roundtable for LGBTQIA+ accountants and allies to connect, share stories, and build belonging together. It’s a place where identity and profession don’t have to live in separate boxes. Where it’s safe to talk, celebrate, question, and grow — with cameras on, mics on, and no recordings. Ever.
Whether you’re out to the world, to a few trusted people, or still figuring it out, you belong here.
This Coming Out Day
Wherever you are in your journey, I hope you’ll take a moment today to celebrate yourself — not just for coming out, but for the resilience, authenticity, and strength it takes to keep showing up.
And if you’re ready to connect with people who understand, we’d love for you to join us. Pride in Numbers meets on the third Wednesday of every month, and there’s no cost to be part of it. Just bring your whole self — and know that you’ll be met with support, encouragement, and maybe even a little laughter.
🌈 Join us: https://lgbtq.accountants/pride-in-numbers/
Because at the end of the day, numbers matter — but the people behind them matter more.
