The gay advocacy group Human Rights Campaign announced that it is canceling plans for a national US celebration of Coming Out Day on October 11 because that date is the one-month anniversary of the terrorist tragedies in New York City, Washington DC, and rural Pennsylvania.

Instead, they are encouraging gays and lesbians to mark these "coinciding anniversaries in the manner that feels most comfortable to you and your community."

"National Coming Out Day provides an opportunity to show America that gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people are a part of the fabric of this country--and in the days following the attacks, America was reminded of that fact.

"In the last month people across the country have stood together and shown the world that Americans of all backgrounds can stand united in support of the women and men who died. When you celebrate National Coming Out Day, take time to honor and assist those GLBT Americans who have been affected by the terrorist attacks. Observe a moment of silence, fly Old Glory, and collect donations for relief efforts." Said Candace Gingrich, manager of the group's National Coming Out Day Project in a statement.