Gay black gospel singers

Sexual orientation refers to an enduring pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or sexual attractions to men, women, or both sexes. Most historians agree that there is evidence of homosexual activity and same-sex love, whether such relationships were accepted or persecuted, in every documented culture. Sexual orientation is a component of identity that includes sexual and emotional attraction to another person and the behavior and/or social affiliation that may result from this attraction.

gay christian singers

Gender identity is one’s self-identification as male, female, or an alternative gender. Transgender is an umbrella term used to describe people whose gender identity (sense of themselves as male or female) or gender expression differs from socially constructed norms associated with their birth sex. This includes androgynous, bigendered and gender queer people, who tend to see traditional concepts of gender as restrictive.

Gay and transgender adolescents had few sources of information to learn about their identity or to find support. More recently, the Internet, school diversity clubs, and LGBT youth groups have helped gay and transgender youth find accurate information, guidance, and support.

However, there are several high profile Christian singers who have recently publicly revealed their same-sex attractions, such as Australia's Jennifer Knapp or American Trey Pearson. This remains a challenge and struggle for this genre of inspirational music. The reaction to these public statements has been mixed within the community.

Many of the early singers who came out were immediately sidelined within their religious community, and this effectively diminished or terminated their professional careers. Notable among these was Marsha Stevens and Ray Boltz. Other past LGBTQ Christian singers have remained in the closet during their lifetime, but subsequent events and biographies have revealed their sexual orientation.

Notable among these is the legendary gospel singer James Cleveland , recipient of four Grammy Awards and nicknamed the 'King of Gospel'. Cleveland died of AIDS in The Gospel church and homosexuality has reportedly had a long inter-twining relationship. LGBTQ individuals have apparently found refuge in gospel churches, and the subject matter of the music appeals to those suffering from marginalization, discrimination and abuse - all reflective of the experience of many queer individuals.

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