High school student receives standing ovation after coming out as bisexual

Words: Steve Brown

A high school student received a standing ovation after coming out as bisexual in his valedictorian speech.

Mason Bleu was addressing his school year during his graduation ceremony where he opened up about his sexuality saying it was something he has struggled with for his whole life.

He said: “I want to end this speech by saying the only way we can make change is by being educated.

“I want to remind all of you to always be proud and to always remain humble. Be proud of what you’ve accomplished, be proud of who you are.

“Continue seeking knowledge and most importantly find ways to educate yourself.

“I’ve struggled to be proud of something all my life, and since I’m preaching about being proud today, it’d be hypocritical of me to continue hiding.

“Not some people like getting emotional so saying is is extremely personal and hard.

“For a long time, I’ve struggled with my sexuality. I’ve dodged it and ignored it because I wasn’t proud of who I am.

“But today I’m changing that. I’m proud to be a bisexual man.”

Many of the audience stood up to applaud Bleu for his bravery to come out in front of everyone.

He continued: “I’ve struggled with being proud of myself for a long time because I was afraid that no one else would be proud of me and for me.

“But an important thing about being proud is that you should always be proud of yourself before you want anyone to be proud of you.”

The audience then applauded again, and he concluded his speech: “On that note, I want to thank everyone for coming out today because I just came out so thank you for coming out.

“Thank you, family, friends, teachers and graduates.

“On a final note, I want to remind you that the one thing no one can take from you is in here (points to his head).

“Your futures are all so bright. Thank you so much and happy Pride!”

Watch his speech below:

So I came out during my valedictorian speech. It was definitely the scariest thing I’ve ever done but the reaction was amazing. Thank you to everyone who supported me! #Pride2019 #LGBTQ pic.twitter.com/u8ih03NTJd

— mason 🇩🇴 (@maasonbleu) June 29, 2019