I don't think asking is bad, neither is waiting for him to decide if he has something to tell. The important part is that he knows that ANY LGBTQ-XYZ issue is ok with you. He could also be pan, transgender, asexual, who knows. But as long as he knows that you care about his wellbeing in all cases, then he will find his way. Another option is to offer him to see a therapist, for any reason, and that he understands that the therapist will not tell you anything. That could give him an option if he needs someone to talk to but still feels self conscious about discussing it with you, and that you assure him it is ok not to talk about everything with you, but still have someone he can feel comfortable talking with. It is no reflection on you if he feels that way.

Well, I believe that being open and comfortably able to discuss sex and sexuality is really important. Things are a bit stuffy and closed off. He may not want to discuss thing straight away but if he feels that you will be understanding and not judgemental then he will likely be more trusting and discuss thing with you in the fututre. Let him know that about your experiences in life. As a parent you have to be the one to reach out with that security line.

Share your journey if he’s interested, but don’t take it personally if he elects not to disclose. I’m a professional sex educator and said all the “right” things to encourage open communication, but my daughters shared little about their sexuality with me. That’s OK! We all have a right to create our own boundaries.

Yes, don't ask. I would just add that, in addition to actual acquaintances, there are other opportunities for discussion if you watch any tv or movies, etc with him, any time some openly queer person is on; that is a chance for you to makes supportive comments. Also, it is a judgment call based on his age and also his demonstrated receptiveness to these discussions, but it can help to take any reasonable opportunities to talk about your own journey, including any self-doubt or anxiety and uncertainty about what others might think of you. All this gives your son convenient opportunities to give you feedback or input into his own feeling on the subject....if he wants to. If he declines to jump at that opportunity, you don't push.

I was going to put my 2 cents in, but I think PalacinkyPDX said it better than I could, so Ill just "ditto" her reply.

You can always leave a book on the topic hanging around.

A Discussion opener. "Hey I'm reading this....".

I wouldn't push - just maybe something that lets him know you noticed - without pushing.

Let him know that whatever he is is ok with you and that you love him. I'd let him figure himself out. Just show love and support for the LGBTQ community so he knows that when he's ready he has nothing to fear from you.