Neil Guiliano ? ?The Campaign Within?

June 13, 2012

Former Tempe Mayor Neil Giuliano talks about coming to terms with his sexuality, coming out while in public office, and why sexual orientation is relevant in today’s world.

Giuliano says he was aware from a young age that he didn’t fit into the mold society had raised him to be in. He also felt he didn’t fit into the prevalent stereotype of homosexual men, and struggled with thoughts of suicide and shame before coming to terms with who he was.

Giuliano says the political climate in Arizona made it necessary to hide his sexual orientation, but he knew that eventually he would have to come out. He says the culture has changed immensely since he came out in 1996, and it’s great that many people can just be themselves and never have to go through a coming-out process. Giuliano also says there’s still a long way to go, and that even after the government grants equal rights society will continue to undergo an education process.

Giuliano will be at Changing Hands Bookstore Monday, June 18 at 7pm.