A Washington D.C. high school principal surprised and inspired his students when he came out as gay at the school's Pride Day event. Pete Cahall, principal of Wilson High School, hid his sexuality for many years. During the school-wide Pride event, with more than twenty community organizations and government agencies that support LGBT youth in attendance, Cahall decided it was the right time to come out.
In Cahall's moving speech, which even included quotes from Lady Gaga's hit "Born This Way," he bravely declared:
"I want to say publicly for the first time because of your leadership, care, and support that I am a proud gay man that just happens to be the principal of Wilson High School."
Cahall was congratulated by David Catania (I), the D.C. Council's first openly gay member. According to Catania, Cahall's announcement "sent a message not just about acceptance and courage, but also about honesty and integrity."
Students at the school gave Cahall a long round of applause and even shed a few tears at the conclusion of the speech.
Watch Cahall's speech here:
Read more at The Washington Post.