P R O C L A M A T I O N
In Recognition of National Coming Out Week
October 5-12, 2009

In recognition of its diversity, Montclair State University is proud to celebrate National Coming Out Week. Initially recognized as a one-day celebration on October 11, National Coming Out Week has been designated by the University in order to celebrate the many contributions that the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community has made in our society, and to recognize the rich variety of human experiences and lifestyles of this population.

The goal of National Coming Out Day is to increase the visibility of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender population in order to educate and inform all Americans about the true diversity of this community. By celebrating this diversity and establishing a positive dialogue, we can foster an atmosphere of respect, understanding, and goodwill.

In order to promote good human relations, and because respect for differences is a critical defining characteristic of a university community and a free and open society, we must erase misperceptions and bigotry by heightening awareness and understanding of this community’s lives and experiences, and work toward accepting differences in people within a framework of mutual respect.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, SUSAN A COLE, President of Montclair State University, hereby proclaim October 5-12, as National Coming Out Week at Montclair State University, and I encourage our entire campus community to join me in celebrating this occasion.

                                                            SUSAN A. COLE

                                                                                        October 1, 2009