Ellen's Coming Out Helped Gays and Lesbians

I remember when Ellen DeGeneres came out of the closet. It was HUGE! Some TV stations refused to air her now infamous "Puppy Episode," while in other cities, bars and restaurants hosted huge viewing parties. TV history was made when Ellen's fictional character, Ellen Morgan, came out of the closet. But even more influential, was the real Ellen's coming out on the cover of newspapers and magazines all over the country. Although she experienced some discrimination and backlash for her brave efforts, she has remained a hero to most gay and lesbian Americans. According to a recent poll by the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center, Ellen DeGeneres' coming out had the more impact than any other public figure.