“It feels like my own family has turned a little bit”
BY AIMEE BUTLER, IMAGE VIA ALBUM ARTWORK
Dancer, singer, and reality television star, Jojo Siwa, caused a stir among the queer community when she announced her relationship with the Love Island cast member Chris Hughes. She has since clarified her sexuality, pointing out that she is still part of the community.
Since announcing the relationship, Jojo has endured substantial bullying and backlash from the LGBTQIA+ community.
Speaking on the Reign with Josh Smith podcast, Jojo expressed disappointment at the reaction from the community, stating, “[…] it feels like my own family has turned a little bit.”
“I see them see me, and I see them laugh, I see them point, I see them roll their eyes now. I see them come up to me and take a photo and run away.”
Jojo noted that while she has developed a thick skin, others will be affected by the backlash, which suggests that people cannot explore their identity without being bullied in response.
The singer has also opened up about feeling as if she previously “boxed herself in”. She has since identified firmly as queer while being with Chris, and has emphasised that being in a “heterosexual relationship” does not make her any less queer.
“We are the LGBTQIA+ family, not the LG community, and it’s a beautiful rainbow, and the number one saying of the queer community is ‘love is love’. And that goes both ways.”
On the Smith Sisters Live show, Jojo argued that her past “doesn’t get to be discredited” simply because she is “in love with a man”.
“The first time I ever fell in love with somebody was with a woman… I’ve obviously been in a relationship with other women, and a non-binary person, and now I’m with a man.”
Jojo previously dated DJ and actor Kath Ebbs before confirming her relationship with Chris following their appearances on Celebrity Big Brother.
More positively, Jojo described how happy she is with Chris: “The best thing that’s ever happened to me is falling in love with him.”
Chris’ father also emphasised their commitment to one another, claiming he would not be surprised if the pair married before Christmas, and that there is a “perfect” wedding venue just “over the lane”.
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