JoJo Siwa Says Social Media Was a ‘Safe Space’ When She Came Out
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JoJo Siwa recently opened up about her experience coming out in 2021, saying social media was a “safe space” for her to be herself. She added that it was “easier to come out online than it was in person.”
JoJo Siwa Talks About Coming Out on Social Media
In January 2021, Siwa posted a photo of herself wearing a shirt that read, “BEST. GAY. COUSIN. EVER.” This post came after she shared a TikTok video of herself lip syncing along to the song “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga.
“Just getting social media for me, it actually gave me a safe space when I came out,” Siwa recently told E! News, adding that she “knew that even if everyone around me didn’t support me that there was gonna be people online that did.”
Siwa went on to say that she “told myself it was gonna be easier to come out online than it was in person.” She called social media “an art” and disagreed with people who criticize online influencers over the idea that “anyone could do it.”
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Siwa Reminds Others That They’re ‘Always Changing’
When asked what advice she would give to others about being authentic to themselves, she said she would remind people that they’re “always changing,” adding, “You’re always growing. You’re always evolving. Never, ever put yourself in a box, and never, ever limit yourself.”
When asked who inspires her in the LGBTQ community, Siwa mentioned Elton John, as well as “superstar ally” Lady Gaga. She described Miley Cyrus as a “freaking icon ’til the day I die” and also mentioned late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury.
Siwa recently launched a new Pride-themed clothing collection called “Gay as JoJo,” featuring joggers and sweatshirts. The sweatshirt features a photo of Siwa giving the middle finger. According to the website, proceeds from every sale will be donated to GLAAD.
