Congratulations to Janelle Monáe! The singer has been named the Trevor Project’s latest recipient of the 2022 Suicide Prevention Advocate of the Year.
The Trevor Project is known as the world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for young people in the LGBTQ community. Monáe, who identifies as non-binary said in a statement, “Growing up queer and Black in a religious household, I faced a lot of challenges trying to understand my identity and where I fit in as someone who always felt beyond the binary.
They went on to say, “We, as LGBTQ folks, as people of color, are a powerful and unstoppable community. I want every young queer person out there to know that I see you, you are beautiful in all of your forms, and you are never, ever alone in this world.”
It was reported that Monáe came out as pansexual a few years ago and went on to discuss their decision on Red Table Talk with Jada Pinkett Smith. “As someone who has dealt with depression and anxiety, prioritizing and protecting your mental health is everything.”
As they were accepting their award, they added, “Amazing organizations like The Trevor Project have your back, and I will personally continue to advocate for you and celebrate you always. No matter what you’re going through, your life matters so much- don’t anyone try to dim your light.”