This Valentine’s Day, adorable Hollywood star, Ellen Page, came out as gay at a Human Rights Campaign Foundation “Time to Thrive” conference in Las Vegas. Page delivered an eight minute long emotional speech that touched thousands everywhere.
“I draw upon your strength and your support in ways you will never know,” Ellen Page says halfway through her speech. She pauses and continues in a wavering voice, “And I am here today because I am gay.” There is another slight pause as the crowd erupted with applause, cheers and a standing ovation.
The decision that the twenty-something actress has made has been labelled as brave, and I strongly agree. It took a ton of courage for her to stand up in front of thousands and come out, knowing that the entire world would be hearing her announcement.
Unfortunately, though, there is some backlash and controversy with Ellen Page’s sexual orientation. For instance, a week before Page came out, NFL hopeful, Michael Sam, acknowledged he was gay. Everyone agreed that his decision to announce this was brave because it may affect him being drafted for the NFL. People are saying that Ellen Page’s decision to come out is not brave simply because it won’t affect her career, like Michael Sam’s.
I think that is completely arrogant to say about both Ellen Page and Michael Sam. Coming out is a hard enough thing to do, but for stars like these, coming out publicly requires even more strength, and yes, bravery. Ellen Page’s life will be changed forever now that she is officially out—and hopefully it will be a positive change. I can’t imagine keeping something like this from everyone in the world for so long, and I truly commend her for publicly announcing it to the world.
Page will serve as a role model for other teens and young adults who are struggling to be open about their sexual orientation. Page has helped thousands with her speech and I think that is why she did it. Coming out at this conference was not selfish at all. Yes, I am sure she wanted to get it off her chest but I think that she knew how much of an effect she would have on youth, and that’s exactly why she did it.
Regardless of the negative comments that are greatly outweighed by the positive ones, Ellen Page made a difference this Valentine’s Day—a difference that will hopefully make struggling teens come out a little easier. Well done, Ellen Page.