Elton John fights LGBTQ+ discrimination with ‘Speak Up Sing Out’ campaign

“We mustn’t let increasing discriminatory legislation taking place around the world hold us back,” John, 77, said. “Let’s lead with acceptance and joy this Pride Month and encourage everyone to be who they are and to love who they love without shame or fear,” he told People.

John’s campaign comes in response to the introduction of more than 515 anti-LGBTQ+ bills in the U.S. during the 2024 legislative session,according to theAmerican Civil Liberties Union.

According to People, one random participant will have the chance to meet Elton John and his husband, David Furnish, inNew York City during Pride Month. To participate, individuals must post a reel onInstagram with a modified lyric from “Your Song,” nominate a supportive individual, and use the hashtag #SpeakUpSingOutGiveaway while following the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s Instagram page @ejaf.

According to a press release, notable friends of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, including Jewel, Robin Arzón, Kristin Chenoweth, Andrew Rannells, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez, and Vanessa Williams, have already lent their support and encouraged their followers to participate.

The foundation says that the campaign was created by the lesbian-owned advertising agency Invisible Man and aims to harness the influential voice of its founder, Elton John, to unite communities through the power of social media.

“It’s about recognizing and honoring the courage and support of those who empower us to stand tall and be authentic in a world too often marked by discrimination and stigma,” Furnish said. “Elton and I can’t wait to meet you and your guest during the most vibrant time of the year in New York, Pride Month!”

Original Article on The Advocate
Author: Christopher Wiggins