Ellen Page announces she is gay during Human Rights Campaign event

“I’m gay,” Ellen Page stated at the Human Rights Campaign’s “Time to Thrive Conference”. The 26 year old was present to speak on behalf of the cause of human rights. Within her speech she mentions the football star, Michael Sam, whom she calls “a hero”. Sam just might be the first openly gay player drafted by the NFL, according to CNN. She even scrutinizes the media for photos that were taken of her that most found unflattering and not feminine enough. The Juno star explains that,

“I am tired of hiding and I am tired of lying by omission. I suffered for years, because I was scared to be out.”

She received a standing ovation the second she made her announcement. Many people have taken to social media sites such as Twitter to show their respect and thoughts to the actress. A video of her speech on Friday has been uploaded on the Human Rights Campaign’s Youtube and is posted below for your convenience.