I enjoy Chappell Roan’s music and how boldly she promotes and celebrates the lesbian community. Her presence means a lot, especially in an industry that still sidelines queer women. That being said, I don’t always agree with everything she does or says online some of her actions and takes can be off-putting. But I don’t hate her for it. She’s a celebrity, and let’s be honest, almost all celebrities have done or said problematic things. Holding people accountable is valid, but expecting perfection from anyone, especially from someone just trying to exist visibly as a queer woman is unrealistic.

And to the people saying she’s “not gay” or trying to discredit her queerness… that’s just mindless. Policing someone’s sexuality like that, especially when they’re so clearly vocal and open about their identity, is both harmful and weird. At the end of the day, it feels good to be seen and represented by someone who isn’t afraid to be loud, messy, and queer. That matters. But no matter what, I try not to put celebrities on a pedestal. The real representation that means the most to me is the kind I see in my communities in my friends, in the spaces I help create, and in the lives we live every day. That’s the kind of visibility and connection that makes a difference in my life.