KEY POINTS
- Demi Lovato launches a new campaign advocating for trans people and the non-binary
- The "Heart Attack" singer talked about ignoring the truth due to the expectations of other people
- Lovato urged others to live their truth because it will manifest sometimes negatively or in other ways
Demi Lovato is using their voice to support the LGBTQ+ community by launching a new campaign.
Lovato partnered with Propeller for a campaign that will benefit organizations including the Human Rights Campaign, The Trevor Project and The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness. The new campaign aims to advocate equality for trans and the non-binary.
"I really believe that when I overdosed in 2018, it was because I was ignoring my truth. I went to such great lengths to suppress who I really am to fit this sexy, feminine pop star and actress image that others had assigned for me that I never truly identified with," the 28-year-old singer told People. "I did it though because I thought that's how it was supposed to be."
Lovato added that she has learned "how important it is to live your truth and not suppress yourself."
"You can only carry on like that for so long before it comes spilling out and manifesting, sometimes negatively, in other ways," the "Glee" star said.
Fans who support the Equality Act and participate in the Human Rights Campaign's "Count Me In" movement will have a chance to earn prizes close to the "Sorry Not Sorry" singer's heart. There will also be sweepstakes and auction prizes that include a wellness-themed trip to Joshua Tree, California that Lovato personally curated.
"This is a crucial moment. In this year alone, we've already seen 36 states introduce bills specifically targeting trans youth. Those who have experienced hate simply for being themselves know the longstanding damage this can have on their lives," the singer said of the event.
"The Human Rights Campaign's 'Count Me In' movement for trans and non-binary equality asks allies to send a message that you vow to go out of your way to raise awareness and uplift the lives of our trans and non-binary friends and family. That you will contact your state legislatures to tell them we won't tolerate any more discrimination. That you will speak out. This campaign from HRC makes it easy to take action. I hope everyone will participate."
Lovato announced in May that "they" do not identify as male or female in a video uploaded on Twitter. The Hollywood star also told the public that "it would mean the world" if they would use the correct pronouns and added that they would "be accepting" if people accidentally use she or her pronouns.
"I want to take this moment to share something very personal with you," Lovato said. "Over the past year and a half I've been doing some healing and self-reflective work, and through this work I've had the revelation that I identify as non-binary."
Recording artist Demi Lovato attends the Billboard Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 20, 2018, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Photo: Getty Images/Frazer Harrison
