Demi Lovato, the non-binary pop star, has issued a heartfelt statement in response to former President Donald Trump’s recent anti-trans executive order. The order, signed on January 20 as Trump began his second term in office, has been widely criticized as a direct attack on LGBTQ+ rights. It stipulates that the U.S. will recognize only “male” and “female” genders, labeling them as “unchangeable,” a move that has sparked outrage from activists and members of the transgender and non-binary communities.
In a powerful show of solidarity, Lovato took to Instagram to share a message of support for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those who are trans and non-binary, following the signing of the controversial executive order.
Lovato’s Message of Solidarity
Lovato, who came out as non-binary in May 2021 and has since used they/them pronouns, shared an emotional post to reassure their followers. “If you are trans or non-binary like me, please know that I see you, I feel you, I am with you. You are validated, you are loved, and you are not alone,” they wrote on their Instagram Story. “No one can take away our identities and no one can tell us who we are or aren’t. We will get thru this. I love you.”
The message was a reminder to Lovato’s followers that despite the challenges posed by such policies, their identities remain valid and protected. Lovato’s words resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community, especially those who felt targeted by the executive order, which many consider a setback for transgender rights.
Backlash to Trump’s Executive Order
Trump’s executive order is seen by many as part of a broader political agenda to erase the legal recognition of non-binary and gender-nonconforming individuals. The order seeks to eliminate protections for transgender people and mandates that only the binary genders of “male” and “female” be recognized by the U.S. government, undermining the legitimacy of identities that exist outside of this framework. Critics, including LGBTQ+ advocates and activists, have denounced the order as harmful and discriminatory, particularly for trans and non-binary individuals who have fought for years to have their gender identities legally recognized.
Demi Lovato’s statement, which offered a message of reassurance and unity, comes at a time when many within the LGBTQ+ community are grappling with the potential ramifications of such policies. Lovato’s visibility as a non-binary public figure continues to be an essential part of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.
Lovato’s Advocacy and Journey
This is not the first time Lovato has spoken out in support of the LGBTQ+ community. Since coming out as non-binary in 2021, Lovato has used their platform to raise awareness about issues affecting gender-nonconforming individuals, including the struggles faced by transgender people in the U.S. Their candidness about their own gender identity and experiences has helped normalize discussions around gender fluidity, especially within the pop music industry.
In a separate interview with GQ magazine in June 2023, Lovato opened up about their decision to re-adopt she/her pronouns alongside they/them. “I constantly had to educate people and explain why I identified with those pronouns,” Lovato shared. “It was absolutely exhausting. I just got tired. But for that very reason, I know that it is important to continue spreading the word.” At the time, Lovato explained that the choice was not an abandonment of their non-binary identity but rather a personal decision to ease some of the burdens of constant explanation.
As of now, Lovato’s Instagram bio lists their pronouns as “they/them/she/her,” reflecting their fluid approach to gender identity.
Support from Other LGBTQ+ Figures
Lovato’s statement is part of a larger wave of defiance against Trump’s executive order, with many other public figures also voicing their opposition. Michelle Visage, a judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race, took to social media to express her own outrage. “You will not erase my child,” Visage wrote in a defiant post, standing firm in her commitment to supporting transgender and non-binary individuals.
Visage’s post highlights the broader pushback from within the LGBTQ+ community, which has rallied around Lovato’s message of love and resilience. The response to the executive order reflects the growing strength and solidarity within the community, as well as the shared commitment to protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
Lovato’s Upcoming Work
Outside of their activism, Demi Lovato continues to make waves in the music industry. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the release of new music, with reports circulating about a potential new track titled “Breathe,” which is said to feature RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Bimini. Lovato’s influence extends beyond their musical talent, as they continue to use their platform to advocate for greater inclusion and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues.
Lovato’s ongoing commitment to authenticity and advocacy has made them an important figure for many in the LGBTQ+ community, and their words of support in the wake of Trump’s executive order are yet another example of how they use their platform to uplift and empower others.
Demi Lovato’s response to Donald Trump’s anti-trans executive order is a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility, solidarity, and support within the LGBTQ+ community. As one of the few high-profile non-binary celebrities, Lovato’s message holds particular significance, offering reassurance to those who may feel vulnerable or marginalized. In a time when the rights of trans and non-binary individuals are under threat, Lovato’s words serve as both a comforting affirmation and a call to action.
With more LGBTQ+ figures, including Michelle Visage, speaking out in opposition to the executive order, the fight for equal rights continues, and Lovato’s commitment to this cause remains unwavering. As the LGBTQ+ community faces these challenges, it is clear that Lovato and others will continue to stand in solidarity and fight for the recognition and rights of all individuals, regardless of their gender identity.
