By ABBY GROFF
Staff Writer
On January 20, 2021 popstar Jojo Siwa came out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community on TikTok. She hinted at this fact very subtly with a quick video of herself lip syncing lyrics to Lady Gaga’s Born This Way that said “No matter gay, straight, or bi…” and “I’m on the right track, baby I was born to survive.” Fans speculated whether this video was her coming out or a simple reference to Lady Gaga herself. Nothing was 100 percent confirmed.
Later in the week Jojo made it clear on TikTok that this video was no coincidence. Siwa stated that there were amazing people out there supporting her unconditionally; however, there will always be people who don’t understand. She also tells her audience “of course people are gonna say it’s not normal, but it’s your normal and it’s okay to be a little different.” As she continues getting this message across, younger viewers in the same situation as her may find themselves relieved to hear their idol’s acceptance.
What does this mean for individuals battling a potential identity crisis or struggling to come to terms with their sexual orientation? Well, it could be a variety of things. Kids have the chance to find themselves and feel at peace, they might feel inspired to share the good news with their families, or they won’t have to feel guilty about denying their true selves. As for fans who may disagree with or were initially against Jojo’s message, they might learn that it is okay hearing it from a new perspective. Jojo Siwa’s decision to come forward about who she truly is is a huge step forward for the LGBTQ+ community, allowing everyone the chance to live freely without shame and express themselves however they please.