the death penalty

21 February 2021

JOJO SIWA COMES OUT AS PART OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY

Star entertainer opens up to her audience regarding her sexuality

JoJo Siwa has made quite a name for herself in recent years. After first making her way into the spotlight in 2015 through her appearance on the famed reality TV show Dance Moms, JoJo’s career further skyrocketed after the release of her song “Boomerang” in 2016. Now in 2021, JoJo Siwa has quite the impressive array of accomplishments under her belt, including a fashion accessory line, a successful concert tour, and her very own spot on Time Magazine’s

list of the 100 most influential people in the world, all by the age of 17. JoJo frequently connects with her audience through social media, and this past January, JoJo made it known online that she is apart of the LGBTQ+ community. Soon after posting a picture onto Twitter of her wearing a “Best Gay Cousin Ever” tee-shirt, Siwa went live on Instagram on January 23 to confirm that she was coming out as part of the LGBTQ+ community. The whole live, JoJo answered everyone’s questions in her usual upbeat and positive attitude and made it clear she appreciated all the support being given to her. When asked by a fan how she identified, she stated that “I’m not ready to say this answer because I don’t really know this answer ... I think humans are incredible people.” JoJo later also confirmed her coming out on TikTok and was met by mostly positive responses. Later that week she made an appearance on The Tonight Show where she revealed she also had a loving girlfriend, who she would then go on to make a TikTok about to celebrate their one-month anniversary. Since her TikTok video, there has been

an outpouring of support for JoJo from fellow celebrities and influencers and the LGBTQ community. Although some people expressed their disapproval in the comment sections, Siwa keeps a smile on her face and remains proud of herself. Gillian Asman (12) says, “I am so proud & happy for JoJo Siwa for coming out to the world. I think it’s amazing how she has such a strong & positive influence on so many people from little kids to even adults and by her coming out I believe her message of “just be yourself” is even stronger than before showing that you don’t need to change for anyone and that you should love yourself for you.” Though there were mixed reactions after JoJo posted the video of her coming out, JoJo remains unperturbed by any negative comments or actions made against her and continues to be a bright source of inspiration for many through her positive attitude. JoJo Siwa’s coming out serves as an inspiration to queer kids everywhere looking to see themselves in a celebrity, and it’s certain that JoJo Siwa will continue to be a source of positivity and strength to her massive following.

aubrey harrell | editorial board addison becker | staff writer

photo courtesy of Amy Sussman