Photo: Kevork Djansezian/NBC via Getty
Tyler James Williamsis addressing the “dangerous message” of speculating his sexuality.
TheAbbott Elementarystar, 30, spoke out on Sunday against people speculating his sexual identity, given the perpetual harm it causes for those actually questioning how they identify.
“Usually I wouldn’t address stuff like this, but I feel like it as a conversation is bigger than me. I’m not gay, but I think the culture of trying to ‘find’ some kind of hidden trait or behavior that a closed person ‘let slip’ is very dangerous,” began Williams on his Instagram Story.
“Overanalyzing someone’s behavior in an attempt to ‘catch’ them directly contributes to the anxiety a lot of queer and queer-questioning people feel when they fear living in their truth,” he explained. “It makes the most pedestrian of conversations and interactions in spaces feel less safe for our gay brothers and sisters and those who may be questioning."
“It also reinforces an archetype many straight men have to live under that is oftentimes unrealistic, less free, and limits individual expressing,” theEverybody Hates Chrisalum added.
The actor then shared that he uses his platform “to push against those archetypes every chance that I get,” explaining, “Being straight doesn’t look one way. Being gay doesn’t look one way.”
“And what may seem like harmless fun and conversation may actually be sending a dangerous message to those struggling with real issues,” he clarified. “I refuse to inadvertently contribute to that message.”
PHOTO:Tyler James Williams/InstagramPHOTO:Tyler James Williams/Instagram
Tyler James Williams/Instagram
“Happy Pride to all of my queer and questioning brothers, sisters, and individuals,” theGolden Globewinner wished. “I pray that you feel seen in ways that make you feel safe in the celebration that is this month.”
“As an ally, I continue to be committed to assisting in that where I can and helping to cultivate a future where we are all accepted and given permission to be ourselves,” he concluded his message with a white heart emoji.
After first rising to fame for his starring role inEverybody Hates Chris, Williams has since garnered even more attention for his portrayal of teacher Gregory Eddie on the ABC sitcomAbbott Elementary, which earned him his firstGolden Globe.
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source: people.com
