THE ONEthing supposedly guaranteed in life is the unconditional love of family. So no matter
how many times I hear stories about a LGBT youth being rejected by his or her family, it never ceases to infuriate me. Unfair and so cruel for those who, for the most part, have already had far too many hard-learned lessons imposed by fear and a lack of understanding around their sexuality. Yes, in many ways it has gotten better, but there are still many who have to endure more than their share. All you have to do is take a moment to read the
stories about many of our youngest LGBT brothers and sisters to grasp the challenges they can often face, the inherent self-doubt, bullying, name-call- ing and angst that can come with growing up gay. Some have it more difficult than others, some less, with far tooo many having to hide in that less-than- comfortable closet. Many being forced out onto the streets when they step out of its confines—by choice or by a demand to leave. The statistics are sobering: between 20 and 40 percent of homeless youth are LGBT. So when I heard of Jonathan Allen, the young
vocalist who told his all-too-familiar story on America’s Got Talent about being rejected by his conservative parents, I was touched by the misfor- tune and his ability to rise from those challenging circumstances. His talent is undeniable, the pow- erful voice that emanates from this unassuming, fresh-faced young man belies the trials he’s faced and shows the world that pain and suffering do not have to end with more of the same. I can’t wait to see where Jonathan ends up—I see
many bright stars in his future. HERE’S A BIT ABOUT WHAT HE HAS TO SAY:
You’re a busy guy these days aren’t you? Yes, I am really, really excited and I am loving it.
Let’s chat a little about your beginnings, when did you start singing? Well I guess you could say that I came out of the womb that way.
I really started at a very young age, just like most everyone, sing- ing it the shower, that kind of thing. When did you first realize or understand that you had something unique vocally? I grew up in the Church of Christ, was raised in that faith with my
family and used to sing there all the time. I loved it so much, so I guess I’d have to say that it was there, when I was quite young. It was a church with very traditional values. Growing up there was when I realize that I had something different. When did you first realize that you were gay? Definitely at some point in elementary school, I’ve always
Photo by Jon Viscott DECEMBER 2013 | RAGE monthly DECEMBER 2013 | monthly 33
TURNING REJECTION INTO GOLD ONE SONG AT A TIME by joel martens
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