On Valentine’s Day Canadian actor Ellen Page publicly stated that she is gay. She made the announcement during a heartfelt speech in Las Vegas at the Time to THRIVE conference, a Human Rights Campaign event that brings awareness to issues in the LGBTQ community. "I’m here today because I am gay," the 26-year-old actor said. "And because maybe I can make a difference. To help others have an easier and more hopeful time. Regardless, for me, I feel a personal obligation and a social responsibility." It was an emotional moment for Page. "I am tired of hiding and I am tired of lying by omission,” she stated. “ I suffered for years because I was scared to be out. My spirit suffered, my mental health suffered and my relationships suffered. And I’m standing here today, with all of you, on the other side of all that pain." Many celebrities tweeted their support for Page’s declaration immediately, and she responded with her own tweet of gratitude. “Thank you @HRC and everyone for all the love and support. X.” I, for one, look forward to the day when a star’s sexual orientation isn’t news at all. Imagine a time when every human being will feel free to be exactly who they are, without consequence. Imagine a time when celebrities, athletes, politicians and anyone in the public eye, for that matter, will not need to hide one of the the most essential aspects of their nature. Kudos to anyone brave enough to stand up for who they are, and for finding the strength to do so. Ellen's speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hlCEIUATzg Photo courtesy of Flickr/CC Ninha Morandini