Love, Simon is a coming of age movie that should be watched by all. The film highlights relevant topics and areas of discussion of not only “coming out,” but acceptance of who you are. While actors and family members of the film have “come out,” this film inspires audiences around the world to find their own courage.

I saw Love, Simon with my mother. A movie she had requested to see months prior to the film’s release. I have to admit, I was a little skeptical of my mother’s desire to see a movie that dealt with the premise of Simon Spier (Nick Robinson) and his secret of being gay that he keeps from his family, his friends, and all of his classmates. When that secret is threatened, Simon must face everyone and come to terms with his identity. I have been vocal about being an LGBTQA+ ally and was surprised after the film to learn my mother was the same. Which leads to the importance of this film and the platform in which it allows families and friends to start a conversation.

One article I read even questioned, “Do we need a coming out movie?” The answer is simple, “Yes!” The film touched on this very question, despite the growth in acceptance over the years of LGBTQA+ community. There is still more growth and acceptance to learn despite the strides made in the recent years. More importantly the importance of LGBTQA+ youth to feel they have a safe environment in schools to express themselves as they chose.

My mother and I had various conversations after the film how we wished that our Vice Principal and teachers were more hands on. I can’t even recall the name of my high school Vice Principal or picture their face. Whereas the teachers that made an impact in my life I can visualize and recall their names. Schools should be a safe zone for students to be who they are without the feel of being bullied. Educators and faculty can achieve this feeling of security by being an LGBTQA+ ally with a zero-tolerance policy.

I encourage families, friends and those navigating this complicated thing called “life” to see this film together. Start conversations and talk about the film with another. We all know someone who has struggled with discovering who they are and some even recall the moment they came out. While the character of Simon may have had the support and the acceptance of his family and friends. This is not the case for many of those who “come out” to their family and friends.  No one should ever feel they have to declare themselves because it’s a trending social media hashtag, or because of someone threatening to out them. The film gives audiences the courage to “come out” on their terms and when they feel ready.