24 Celebrities Whose Coming Out Helped Change the World

While we still have quite a ways to go with equality in all aspects of life for those who identify as LGBTQ (consider the transphobic “bathroom” law in North Carolina or the epidemic of bullying still plaguing schools across the country), we are unquestionably making strides. For one: It seems we are finally reaching a point where coming out isn’t a career-ender for actors and actresses. It may not seem like much to some people, but it is a start.

But even just a couple decades ago, that was very much not the case. There were only a few performers willing to come out and brave the scorn of an ignorant public — and it’s partly because of them that we live in the more open environment we have today. Their coming out was met with a mix of reactions, but they continued to have successful careers, and helped change the public’s perception of what it means to be LGBTQ. They’ve done a lot to de-stigmatize the community just by being their true selves. As we celebrate Pride month, it’s time look back at 24 celebrities who helped change the world.

H/T: Teen Vogue