Coming out still strongly matters to Milwaukee Pride. So, in honor of National Coming Out Day, the organization will host its first BeOUT Milwaukee celebration on Tuesday, Oct. 11, throughout the Walker's Point neighborhood.

The goal of the inaugural event is to take the day to be seen and heard in the community, as well as to pay tribute to the strides made over time toward LGBTQ visibility and equality – and how those strides came to be. 

"Pride is more than just a weekend," said Karina Willes of the Milwaukee Pride Board of Directors in a press release. "To support those who are living with doubt and fear, we need to be visible and present throughout the year. On National Coming Out Day, we ask everyone to simply BE OUT, be together and be united. We must be loud with our pride to overcome those who seek to silence us."

Check in for BeOUT Milwaukee starts at 5 p.m. at the event's headquarters, located at South Second, 838 S. 2nd St. There, attendees can pick up a neighborhood map, enter a prize drawing and enjoy a cash bar with complementary desserts. Then, throughout the evening, guests can tour the stores, restaurants and bars scattered throughout Walker's Point, as well as take a stand against bullying and discrimination by scheduling a protest photo with the internationally recognized NOH8 Campaign. Later, at 8 p.m., Milwaukee Pride, PFLAG Milwaukee and their event partners will host a community reception – featuring the awarding of the first-ever BeOUT Award for LGBTQ visibility. 

No tickets are required for the event. However, if one wants an official photo, a nominal donation to the NOH8 Campaign is required. 

Those looking to donate, sponsor of volunteer at the BeOUT Milwaukee celebration can contact Milwaukee Pride at info@milwaukeepride.org.