“Coming out” is a process that takes a different form for each member of the LGBTQIA+ community. National Coming Out Day, which occurs annually Oct. 11, celebrates these differences and reminds us to respect and support people in the incredibly personal decision of how, when and if they decide to come out.

A person “coming out” means they are sharing their sexual orientation, romantic orientation or gender identity with others. A one-on-one conversation, a post on social media or no formal announcement at all are just some of the forms a person may choose to come out. Others may choose not to come out at all, or to only come out to certain people.

National Coming Out Day is a day of pride for those who can freely and openly be themselves, and it serves as a reminder that people who choose to come out will do so on their own time and terms. For people who may not feel safe or comfortable enough to come out, it is a day of support and solidarity.

It is important to remember that you should never pressure or ask anyone to share their identity unless they decide to inform you themselves. In addition, it is not your responsibility or your place to share another person’s identity without their permission.

National Coming Out Day occuring in October, which is also LGBTQ History Month, emphasizes that support for the LGBTQ community does not begin and end in June during Pride month. People’s queer identities are present year-round and are an essential part of their life, regardless of who they’ve formally come out to.

Each National Coming Out Day shows us how important it can be to freely express your true self, no matter how you identify.