Quorum's 2022 National Coming Out Day Luncheon is October 14th, Featuring Keynote Speaker, Jack Jablonski
Friday, October 7, 2022 at 2:10AMArticle by Becky Fillinger, photos provided
Rebecca WaggonerNational Coming Out Day (NCOD) commemorates the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights in October 1979. The first official celebration of NCOD was in 1988. The day recognizes that homophobia thrives in silence and it is a time celebrate the history of the LGBTQ+ movement and its champions. Quorum, Minnesota's LGBTQ+ and Allied Chamber of Commerce, is holding its annual National Coming Out Day Luncheon on October 14. We talked to Rebecca Waggoner, Executive Director, about what to expect and how to get tickets.
Q: Why is it important to still celebrate ‘coming out’?
A: National Coming Out Day celebrations still matter because coming out and living your authentic truth still matters. Not just for me personally, but for all those who came out before me and will continue to come out after me. Coming out is an act of courage that needs to be celebrated and honored and is often a chance to stop hiding and start living. National Coming Out Day is an opportunity to celebrate who we are and who we love. We also come out to potentially help that person who is struggling with their sexual orientation or identity begin the journey to experience the joy of living their genuine and true self.
Q: What can we expect at Quorum’s luncheon on October 14?
Jack Jablonski
A: Every year Twin Cities Quorum hosts the National Coming Out Day (NCOD) Luncheon, the nation's largest event commemorating NCOD, with local and national leaders sharing their stories of coming OUT.
We know by honoring the stories of our community members, by listening, we build understanding. When we bring businesses to the table we build partnerships, we build allies, and we build a more beloved community.
This year Quorum is pleased to welcome Jack Jablonski as a keynote speaker. Eleven years ago, Jack brought Minnesotans together to pray for his swift and speedy recovery from a severe injury he incurred while playing hockey. As Jack continued along his path of recovery, he touched the hearts of countless Minnesotans with his perseverance and continued tenacity. Jack’s bravery in the face of unmatched adversity continues to impact the lives of many through the Jack Jablonski Foundation. We’re so pleased to welcome him home and hear his story of accepting himself and coming out proudly as a member of the LGBTQ community.
There are additional NCOD speakers too:
· Hildie Edwards, a trans actor/performer who advocates for affirmation and celebration of trans kids. (NOTE: She is 12 years old and adorable!)
· Chelsey Falzone, Minnesota Twins Manager of Youth Engagement
· Quinn Villagomez, Proud Transgender Latina broadcast journalist, LGBT media personality, host and MC
· Mike Marcotte, Executive Producer at KSTP-TV-Twin Cities Live
· B. Kyle, President/CEO, St. Paul Chamber of Commerce
Q: What are the event details?
The Luncheon takes place Friday, October 14, 11:45am – 1:15pm, at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, 1300 Nicollet Mall. Click here for Tickets.
Q: Any closing thoughts for our readers?
A: We hope you will join us as our community celebrates the strength, courage and wisdom of LGBTQ+ and Allied people who have braved their own unique journeys to now live openly and authentically...and with pride.
