BOOK EXTRACTS: It’s Ok To Be Gay – Diana King Coming Out Story

<p> </p><p><img src="http://www.thegayuk.com/communities/8/004/009/928/388/images/4603262165.jpg" width="460" height="396" alt="" title=""/></p> <p></p><p></p><p>Diana King</p><p>Singer/songwriter</p><p></p><p>Born</p><p>Jamaica, 1970</p><p></p><p>Best known as</p><p>For her chart-topping hits ‘Shy Guy’ from the soundtrack of the Will Smith film Bad Boys movie and ‘Say A Little Prayer’ from the Julia Roberts film My Best Friend’s Wedding. She collaborated with Notorious B.I.G. on his track ‘Respect’ and Celine Dion on ‘Treat Her Like A Lady’. Sold millions of records worldwide, signed to Madonna’s Maverick record label and now runs her own label ThinkLikeAgirl. Honoured with the Vanguard Award at the Out Music Awards in Las Vegas in 2012. The first Jamaican artist to ever publicly come out.</p><p></p><p></p><p>What made you choose to come out publicly on Facebook?</p><p>The reasons are many but I came out publicly because I am a public figure who communicates a lot with my fans on social media, but also it felt like it was my duty to say it with pride for all those who are like me and afraid. It was the only thing missing from my life as far as being 100% authentic was concerned. I have always followed my heart and said and done whatever it was I wanted to. On 28 June 2012 I had a moment of courage from the fear I had learnt and I took it. I posted, ʻYes!! I am a lesbian.’ My post read ʻI am … woman … mother … aunt … Jamaican … American … International artist … singer … songwriter … band leader … friend … lover … entrepreneur … goddess! among other things and yes!!!…I am a lesbian … the answer to my most asked indirect question. I welcome the ʻWho cares’ right now LOL. I answer now, not because it’s anyone’s business but because it feels right with my soul …’</p><p>I had waited a long time to feel this brave and on that day I got to the point where I preferred to be hated for who I am than be loved for an illusion in people’s minds.</p><p></p><p>How did your former husband and son react? How did people react towards them?</p><p>Love stands the test of time. We are all very close. As for “people”, you can’t live your life for others. Your children and family fall into the category of “others” too. It’s better to be upfront about who you are and how it is, so the right people will love and accept you no matter who they are.</p><p></p><p>Have there been any negative experiences?</p><p>I had a few negative comments but nothing compared to the positive stuff. I must say I didn’t expect so much love but it feels great. The only difference now is that I have to think twice about where I go to perform. Even though my fans are everywhere, if it’s a country where LGBT people are killed or imprisoned, I won’t go. It is frustrating because my music does not discriminate and neither do I. I wish it wasn’t like that but I have to be smart and keep my band and me safe.</p><p></p><p>When and how did you first realise you were gay? You have talked about the negative attitudes towards gay people in Jamaica and the violence levelled at your ‘sister-friend.’ How did you deal with such levels of homophobia growing up?</p><p>I believe I was about five years old when I felt something but the Jamaican culture, which is deeply rooted in Christianity, can turn even an LGBT person homophobic. At the very least, I was quite confused. Initially, I was too young to know what I was feeling and then as I got older I became silent except for when I sang and just tried to fit in because just in case I wasn’t “straight” I didn’t want to get hurt or murdered. When it started to become more clear to me I knew I had to get away because I did not see myself living in fear or a life where I could not be myself and I knew I could not change the belief system no matter how great I could sing. I didn’t just know it, like many people do, it took me into my 20s but I do believe my upbringing made it harder for me to figure out. Who would want to be gay if it means being disowned, or persecuted. If it means oppression or death.</p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1909624128/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=19450&creativeASIN=1909624128&linkCode=as2&tag=th052-21">BUY It's Okay To Be Gay </a></p><p> </p>