Singer and American Idol star, David Archuleta has come out as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
The “Crush” singer, who watched his star rise after placing in second during the seventh season of the reality competition show, publically announced his coming out via an emotional post on Instagram.
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Archuleta wrote, “I like to keep to myself but also thought this was important to share because I know so many other people from religious upbringings feel the same way. I’ve been open to myself and my close family for some years now that I am not sure about my own sexuality."
The artist discussed that he had previously come out as gay to his loved ones in 2014, but is still trying to determine where he finds himself on the queer spectrum. Archuleta also adds that he is continuing on his path of self-discovery.
He explained, “I came out in 2014 as gay to my family. But then I had similar feelings for both genders so maybe a spectrum of bisexual. Then I also have learned I don’t have too much sexual desires and urges as most people which works I guess because I have a commitment to save myself until marriage. Which people call asexual when they don’t experience sexual urges. There are people experiencing the same feelings of being LGBTQIA+, (I know that’s a lot of letters that a lot of people don’t understand, but there are a lot of unique experiences people feel and live that make them feel isolated and alone that are represented) who are wrestling to follow their beliefs that are so important to them, just as I have. Idk what to make of it and I don’t have all the answers. I just invite you to please consider making room to be more understanding and compassionate to those who are LGBTQIA+, and those who are a part of that community and trying to find that balance with their faith which also is a huge part of their identity like myself."
David is a Mormon missionary and an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He has urged his Christian peers to be open towards people of faith who are grappling with their sexual identities and religious beliefs.
“I think we can do better as people of faith and Christians, including Latter-day Saints, to listen more to the wrestle between being LGBTQIA+ and a person of faith. There are more than you may realize going through that wrestle after all the misunderstandings that come with it,” writes Archuleta.
He continues, “I don’t think it should come down to feeling you have to accept one or the other. For me to find peace the reality has been to accept both are real things I experience and make who I am. I’ve yet to figure out what that means but I appreciate you listening to this personal matter. Again I don’t feel comfortable sharing it, but felt I needed to bring more awareness to people in my same situation and let you know you’re not alone. You can be part of the LGBTQIA+ community and still believe in God and His gospel plan."
WATCH MORE: Why is it Important to support the LGBTQ community?
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