Carly Rae Jepsen: ‘I’m praying’ that by cancelling I will help the Boy Scouts lift its gay ban
Singer Carly Rae Jepsen has spoken out again about her decision to cancel her performance at the Boy Scouts of America’s annual jamboree because of its anti-gay policy, and has said she hopes it will help the scouts to lift its ban.
In an interview with MTV, she said: “I mean, it was sort of one of those things that I kind of have my opinions about, and everyone’s entitled to their own, but it wasn’t necessarily something that I felt comfortable backing once I learned more about it”.
She continued: “And that being said here’s hoping they make the right decision and I’m praying that moves like this will help.”
What she said in her interview reflects her official statement, in which she said: “As an artist who believes in equality for all people, I will not be participating in the Boy Scouts of America Jamboree this summer. I always have and will continue to support the LGBT community on a global level and stay informed on the ever-changing landscape in the ongoing battle for gay rights in this country and across the globe.”
Before they quit, a Change.org petition with over 62,000 signatures was arranged by Eagle Scout, and former Boy Scout leader Derek Nance, urging them not to go ahead with the performance.
The Scouts released a statement, which said: “We appreciate everyone’s right to express an opinion and remain focused on delivering a great Jamboree program for our Scouts.”
The national Boy Scouts of Americas board previously postponed from making a decision, but is meeting in May, and is expected to decide on the policy then. It is considering lifting its national ban on allowing gay volunteers, members and staff, which would effectively allow individual scout troops to decide on whether to be inclusive or not.
Reports suggest that GLAAD will issue a formal invitation for Carly Rae Jepsen and Train to perform at the GLAAD Media Awards later this year, when Madonna will present an award to Anderson Cooper.
