In April actress/songstress Janelle Monáe talked about her sexuality during a Rolling Stone interview.
Known for wearing her signature look?tailored suits, until then the talented singer kept details around her romantic preferences private.
Allure writer, Cameron Glover explains, "Her art has always translated to the idea that there was so much more behind the curtain than what we as fans were allowed to see. I was comforted by the idea that power didn?t have to come from sharing yourself with the world before you were ready.
In her new release, Dirty Computer Janelle Monáe described herself as pansexual.
Glover, says that as a Black woman, Monáe's coming out means more than some may know.
She explains, "A massive part of Monáe?s appeal from a fan standpoint is that she speaks to us in a way that erases those barriers of otherness. In fact, her music creates the invaluable message of belonging and importance that many of us may not have directly experienced otherwise. In fact, our most formative memories are often the opposite of belonging."
Janelle's confession not only represents her strength to stand up for other people who describe themselves as queer, but also a reminder for people of color that representation matters.
Glover adds, "Monáe gave us permission to embrace our authentic selves. To be something 'other' ? something more than we appear to be. It isn?t just a choice, but an act of saving ourselves. Monáe is joining a legacy of black queer artists who have come before her: including Little Richard and her mentor Prince, as well as those who are evolving alongside her, like Frank Ocean and Le1f."