Governor Bryant,
I am scheduled to perform in your great state this Saturday, however given the very recent anti-LGBTQ attacks that your administration has leveled against some of your own citizens I very nearly cancelled my appearance. After discussion with various LGBTQ groups, however, I’ve decided to go forward with the show in order to say a few things to those who live in the Magnolia State — and I want to start off by addressing you directly.
As the very proud mother of a gay child I can’t imagine anything less Christian than using the law as a weapon against others. Because of my career as a performer and the privilege that has brought to our family, my son will be all right, but the pain you’re causing LGBTQ Mississippians is devastating, especially the transgender folks and LGBTQ people of color who will be most directly impacted by these attacks. Brave organizers like Kaylee — a black transgender Mississippian — and Brandiilyne — a lesbian pastor in Mississippi — are just two of the people who will be directly impacted by hateful bills like these. Their bravery in organizing against these attacks is stunning.
Nearly 30 years ago, I released a song titled “Heaven Is a Place on Earth.” I was proud of the message of that song then and I continue to be proud of it today. Unfortunately, Governor Bryant, you and those around you are making life hell on earth for many Mississippians.
How about we take this to the next level?
Our newsletter is like a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) of LGBTQ+ entertainment and pop culture, served up with a side of eye-candy.
So I’ll go forward with my show on Saturday and I’ll use it as an opportunity to speak the truth about the bravery of people like Kaylee and Brandiilyne and so many others across your state who are resilient and loving and brave. Finally, it is my call, as a mother, that you bring a little bit of heaven to Mississippi by repealing HB1523.
Belinda Carlisle, pop star, mother of gay son James Duke Mason and longtime straight ally to LGBT people, in an open letter posted on her Facebook page
ScottOnEarth
Thank you, Belinda Carlisle!! Your son is lucky to have you as his mom and all of us are fortunate that you are using your voice to express outrage over the hateful, pathetic HB1523. I live in West Hollywood, CA, but am furious with any law that discriminates against anyone, anywhere. ??????
yaletownman
Thank you Belinda. I’ve loved,you since The Go Go’s and I love you even more today.
Keebler ILF
She talks about when she started noticing that her son might be gay.
https://youtu.be/4OSN-LvTNFs