The Pride Center of Staten Island celebrated National Coming Out Day with a luncheon, where allies could come together to talk and support each other.

People also got to share their personal stories about how they came out to their loved ones, or why they have not.

National Coming Out Day started 30 years ago following the National march on Washington for gay rights and it took place over Columbus Day weekend.

"He discovered the new world and we discovered a new world in each other and every year on staten Island we do something, a picnic a party or something to keep that spirit alive," said Jim Smith, Board of Directors.  

"I think it's especially important to celebrate it on Staten Island because not everybody feels safe being out on Staten Island as an LGBTQ person, so for me it's really important to be out and vocal and visible as an LGBTQ person to help change that culture," said Lisa Sloan, program director.  

The pride center offers counseling services and support groups to anyone who may be struggling or just wants to talk.