American Idol runner-up says she ‘doesn’t agree’ with LGBT lifestyles
American Idol runner up, La’Porsha Renae, has said she doesn’t agree with LGBT lifestyles.
The Mississippi native has faced criticism online after saying she “wasn’t brought up that way”, when asked about the new anti-LGBT law that has just been passed in the state.
We don’t have to agree with each other’s life choices to love/respect one another. Live and let live. #RENAETION #RespectThatWeAreDifferent
— La’Porsha~Renae (@laporsharenae) 9 April 2016
After losing to Trent Harmon, La’Porsha said that although she didn’t believe in discrimination, she also didn’t agree with people ‘choosing’ that lifestyle.
“They are people just like us. They’re not animals as someone stated before,” the 22-year-old told a press call.
“They’re people with feelings. Although all of us may not agree with that particular lifestyle for religious reasons, whatever the reason is, you still treat each other with respect.”
She added that she had lots of gay friends, but said: “I am one of the people who don’t really agree with that lifestyle. I wasn’t brought up that way. It wasn’t how I was raised.”
La’Porsha also posted her comments to Twitter, prompting a backlash from people who called out her choice of words.
Kit Williamson replied: “Glad you’re leaving Mississippi. One less close minded person holding my home state back. Too bad – I was a fan.”
“Being gay isn’t a lifestyle; it’s part of who someone is. Using the word lifestyle implies it’s a choice — which it isn’t,” said Shane Bitney Crone, an LGBT advocate.
.@LaporshaRenae Being gay isn’t a lifestyle; it’s part of who someone is. Using the word lifestyle implies it’s a choice — which it isn’t.
— Shane Bitney Crone (@ShaneBitney) 10 April 2016
The Governor of Mississippi signed what is deemed as American’s most anti-LGBT law into force last week. The Protecting Freedom of Conscience from Government Discrimination Act will allow people to use religion as an excuse to discriminate against LGBT people.
A number of businesses and celebrities, including Ellen DeGeneres, have slammed the state for passing the bill.
