Coming out to classmates: should I?

[My name isn’t Megan]

So I’ve been attending an acting conservatory for almost a year now. The other students in my ensemble are some of the kindest, coolest, most supportive people I’ve ever met. The same goes for everyone else that I’ve met there. I’ve been considering coming out as trans to them for awhile now, but I’m really uncertain if I should. The main issue that comes to mind is how my family would react. I’m out to my parents, but I’m still receiving some pushback from them on the subject of presenting female (like I’ve been avoiding buying girl clothes and stuff like that). Idk, guess I’d just appreciate some other opinions on the matter! Any advice is welcome ❤️

[Timber Wolf]

Ooow, this isn't an easily answered question. Altimately, you are the only one who can answer it well, as you know the people and situation best. All I can say is to try to determine if it would be safe.

 

With my family, I was initially too terrified to come out. But it got to the point I could no longer live a dishonest life around them. And with them I at least knew I was pretty safe. I don't know if this is of any help whatsoever, but I do wish you the best no matter what you decide.

 

Lots of love,

Timber Wolf ?

[Sabine]

It is true that you should consider staying safe, however that simply could mean that you come out to specific people in your acting group, or even one person here and there. I am not sure of your situation, but it is unclear why your parents would (need to ?) know who you come out to anyhow. You can't live in the closet for the sake of others, at risk of your own mental health. None the less, baby steps, and the validation you get from others will help strengthen your resolve to deal with your family. They are likely more concerned for your well being (safety) in presenting female, but perhaps you may find time outside of home to express your feminine side?

[Jackie C.]

Oh hey, I've got a longtime friend who's active in the community and lives in the north part of Virginia. If you think it's safe, I'd go for it. Start with a small sample, see how it goes. Theater folk are usually pretty open-minded. Otherwise, I know there are groups in-state you can get with for support and some new friends.

 

As for your parents, it doesn't sound like they're 100% on-board but it can be a process for family. If you're never experienced dysphoria it can be hard to understand. Depending on where you are, I can see your parents being afraid that if you present in some way that isn't hetero-normative that you're asking for trouble. They probably don't want to see you get hurt and, unfortunately, that's a danger in this country. Their push-back could be from a place of love. I'd sit down and talk to them about it. It seems like a talk you need to have from where I'm sitting.

 

Whichever you choose, best of luck whoops, I mean break a leg. ? Be safe. Be comfortable. Be happy. Be yourself. Clear skies and tailwinds!

 

Hugs!

 

 

[KymmieL]

Like others have said. Start small and see how it goes. Maybe a better friend. As for your parents. Being that you are out to them. You can wear woman's cloths and still not present as a total girl. Start with replacing your male items with female equivalents. When you get a new pair of jeans get a girls pair. underwear pick up a pack of panties. Get rid of your icky boxers.

 

The push back from your parents maybe that you claim you are transgender yet still wear male cloths. You don't need to come out ready to go some were in a dress. However once they see it isn't a passing fancy, or phase  the push back may lessen.

 

I hope that what I said makes sense.

 

Kymmie