“Why We Need Another Coming Out Story” discusses the challenges of living in a heteronormative society. As individuals who identify as LGBTQ, it can be difficult to find others with similar stories in order to create ties and generate a sense of community. This talk explores the negative effects of living a secret life, and builds on the theme of connection to persuade others that sharing their stories is a key factor in creating a more inclusive society.


Christine is a senior Psychology student at Wichita State University. She is a member of the McNair Scholars program, which helped her get started in undergraduate research where she found her passion for social justice and diversity and inclusion. With the help of her faculty advisor, she is currently conducting research on attitudes toward athletes who identify as LGBTQ. Upon graduating in May, Christine plans to pursue a graduate degree in Counseling Psychology, while focusing her research on LGBTQ issues. After graduate school, she aspires to work at a university in a counseling setting, and later, become a professor.When she is not in class or working on her research, she is a Peer Advisor at the WSU Career Development Center and a Health Care Specialist in the U.S. Army Reserve. She volunteers for the Compeer program at the Kansas Mental Health Association and is a member of the Student Government Association Mental Health Task Force.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx