John,

Today is National Coming Out Day, which, as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, is especially meaningful to me.

I came out as gay fifteen years ago. The first people I told were my parents. I was home from college over Thanksgiving break, and I decided to tell them over dinner. I was nervous, and as we were finishing dessert, I knew I could not put it off any longer. I told them that I had something to say to them. But before I could get the words out, my father leaned back in his chair and said, “You're going to tell us you're gay, right?” (If you know my father, you know this is perfectly him).

I felt an immense sense of relief. At that point, it was difficult for me even to say the word “gay,” so I appreciated that my father took the pressure off of me having to say it myself. My parents told me they loved me and we hugged, and I was grateful for having my family’s support, even from that very first day. In addition to my parents, the community in my small hometown of Whitehall accepted me.

But I acknowledge the privilege of feeling safe enough to come out and being accepted because that is not the experience many LGBTQ+ folks have. I want that to change and I want all LGBTQ+ people to be loved, accepted, and treated equally. That’s one reason why I'm running for Congress against Elise Stefanik. Elise does not prioritize the interests of the LGBTQ+ community; she voted against the Equality Act, which would ban discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

Congress needs more LGBTQ+ representation and fewer people like Elise Stefanik.

I hope you’ll consider contributing to my campaign for Congress. I need your support to replace Elise Stefanik. →

On National Coming Out Day, I hope you join me in always advocating for the equality and dignity of all LGBTQ+ people.

Thank you for listening to my story and for supporting my campaign.

With gratitude,

Matt Putorti