In a recent interview with People magazine, JoJo Siwa opened up about how Disney World played a pivotal role in her journey of self-discovery as a member of the LGBT community. Siwa, who came out as gay earlier this year, spoke candidly about how the theme park has been the site of both happy and difficult memories throughout her life.
Siwa stated that she has had many fun and transformative experiences at Disney World, including falling in love for the first time and realizing her own sexuality. She recounted how a trip to the park with her friend Kylie Prew led to her discovering her romantic feelings towards her friend. While at the park, Siwa and Prew enjoyed spending time together, riding rides, and joking around, but Siwa soon realized that her feelings went beyond just friendship.
“I was here for 14 days with a girl that was my really good friend and I realized that, ‘Oh, I like her,’” Siwa said. “And having all those feelings while just being in the most magical place in the world and the happiest place on Earth was so cool. We’re not together anymore, but we did have some really fun, happy memories here.”
Siwa’s experience at Disney World is just one example of how LGBT individuals have found moments of self-discovery and acceptance in unexpected places. For Siwa, the park served as a backdrop to an important moment in her journey, a reminder that even in the most joyful places, difficult emotions and revelations can arise.
Siwa’s willingness to speak openly and honestly about her experiences as a member of the LGBT community is a testament to the progress being made in the entertainment industry towards greater inclusivity and acceptance. As more and more public figures share their own stories, it becomes clear that the path to self-discovery is not always straightforward or easy, but that it is an essential part of the human experience.