DC School Principal Comes Out at Gay Pride Event

The principal at one of the District of Columbia's largest public high schools has told students for the first time that he is gay at a pride day event.

Wilson High School Principal Pete Cahall was joined Wednesday by Mayor Vincent Gray and by the first openly gay member of the D.C. Council, David Catania.

Cahall says he has hid in the shadows for the last 50 years but was inspired by his students to say publicly for the first time that he is "a proud gay man." Students greeted the announcement with loud cheers.

For years, being gay was a fireable offense in schools. Now, more gay teachers and school administrators are open about their sexual orientation.

Cahall's announcement drew some criticism from those who oppose gay rights.