Outing and Outer: Definition and Dangers of Forced Revelation

What is Outing?

Outing, or the act of “outing” someone, is one of the most violent and destructive acts there is. It involves revealing a person’s trans (or more broadly LGBTQIA+) identity without their explicit permission. It is stealing their story, stripping them of control over their own life and safety. Where coming-out is a chosen act of emancipation, outing is an aggression, a violation of the most fundamental intimacy.

What are the consequences of Outing?

The consequences of an outing can be catastrophic. A person who has chosen to be stealth to protect themselves can find themselves overnight facing the loss of their job, their home, the breakdown of family or friendly ties, and exposed to constant harassment, or even physical violence. You never know what you destroy by “outing” someone. You do not know the fragile balances on which their life rests, nor the dangers to which you expose them.

Why is Outing unacceptable?

The rule is simple, absolute, and non-negotiable: you NEVER reveal someone’s gender identity or sexual orientation for them. It is up to the person concerned, and them alone, to decide who knows, when, and how. Beyond the moral betrayal it represents, it should be known that outing can be legally recognized as an infringement on privacy, and therefore be punishable by law. A person’s secret does not belong to you. It is neither a scoop nor gossip. It is precious information sometimes entrusted to you, and your only duty is to protect it.