I've come to a realization why these sorts of retcons happen. It's the only form of permanent change that can occur in the Big 2 anymore. Usually when you make some new plot development, a disrespectful new writer can come along and undo/subert your work just to prop up their own, relegating it to a footnote curiosity or "era" at best (even popular changes like Sandman being a good guy). But becoming part of the LGBT comes with so many connotations, anyone who tries to shove it under the rug would fall victim to any number of anti-discrimination laws or at the very least would be blacklisted from the industry because any google search of their name will show a hundred news article vultures pouncing on the drama.

It's the final answer to the "revolving capeshit writer door" that allows you to actually make your mark.