The Importance of Coming Out

Earlier today, Ricky Martin posted a message on his official website. He writes "I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man".

I know nobody should be surprised or shocked by this coming out. He has been very popular in the Philippines since his Menudo days. His last visit to Manila confirmed my suspicions as I watched his interviews.

His coming out is important because he gives young gay men someone to look up to--he is a very handsome, successful and caring gay father. I grew up with images of weak, insecure and socially irrelevant gay men on TV and it took me a long time to realize otherwise.

I won't be surprised though if he comes out with a new album soon.