Anderson Cooper Officially Comes Out As Gay And His Reasoning Involves Your Kids

Anderson Cooper came out as gay in an Andrew Sullivan column today, and even though the collective Internet is probably rolling their eyes with the idea that this is somehow breaking news, his wish to be “counted” among visible LGBTQ folk can mean only good things — especially for queer children and families.

In his statement given to The Daily Beast for publication, Anderson explains why he chose to remain mum on “the gay question” in an attempt to maintain perceived objectivity as a professional journalist. But even though it’s been widely assumed — for years — that Anderson is gay, his neglecting to go the formal famous people avenues of declaring his sexual orientation with a PR megaphone have started chatter that he might be ashamed. In his explanation for why he has chosen this moment to clear up any inkling that he is hiding some part of himself, Anderson confirms that being vocal has “value,” particularly for young people:

There continue to be far too many incidences of bullying of young people, as well as discrimination and violence against people of all ages, based on their sexual orientation, and I believe there is value in making clear where I stand.

The fact is, I’m gay, always have been, always will be, and I couldn’t be any more happy, comfortable with myself, and proud.

I have always been very open and honest about this part of my life with my friends, my family, and my colleagues. In a perfect world, I don’t think it’s anyone else’s business, but I do think there is value in standing up and being counted.

And goodness, are we far from that “perfect world.” Among legislation and policies that consistently disempower LGBTQ families and kiddies, such as North Carolina’s Amendment One or the fact that schools across the nation do not challenge homophobic sentiments, having someone as accomplished and recognizable as Anderson on the roster lends even more visibility to a marginalized cohort.

(photo: Nikki Nelson / WENN.com)