Born This Way: One Year Anniversary & National Coming Out Day
Hey everyone,
Today is a special occasion: it’s marks the 1st Anniversary of the release of my Born This Way: Real Stories of Growing Up Gay book. I can’t believe a whole year as passed! For now, let’s all light some rainbow colored candles and blow them out for the book. To check out some videos from our spectacular book launch event in LA last year (featuring Frank DeCaro, Miss Coco Peru, Jackie Beat, Patrick Bristow, Prince Poppycock and more), you can click here.
In the year that’s passed, I’ve seen my book get met with such positive, wonderful reviews and feedback, and I’ve been contacted by many parents who have found it to be a really helpful tool in understanding their own gay children. And I know that it’s reaching kids too – gay and straight alike – and that’s really all I ever wanted to see: that my book could have a positive impact on their lives. And if you have someone in your life that might be gay or questioning, give them a copy of my book. I bet it will make them smile.
Also, this Friday October 11th marks another National Coming Out Day. It’s interesting to see what coming out looks like in 2013, because now when someone in the public eye does it, it’s usually done so casually and smoothly, sometimes we barely notice. But it is no less important. And the better news is that being out today is not met with the shock or career-damage it once was. In fact, these people are almost always applauded and celebrated for being out.
For me personally, 2013 was quite a year, especially for the LGBT community. Something I never, ever dreamed would be possible for me finally came true: MARRIAGE EQUALITY! And here in CA, we finally eradicated Prop 8, which was such a stain and embarrassment for my great state. And seeing all the photos of the gay community and their marriage ceremonies was truly heartwarming. It’s hard to imagine what this all feels like, if one has always had the right to marry the person they love. For my community and me though, it marks the beginning of all the same rights and protections that every citizen deserves. Equality is a beautiful thing, and that’s what America is truly all about!
In closing, I just want to send a huge thank you to everyone who has supported my book thus far. It was a dream come true to see it published, and I really appreciate each and everyone one of you.
All my best,
Paul V. Vitagliano
PS – I’m handsome and single and seeking a handsome husband in LA, CA.
Inquire within! 🙂
