In a show of solidarity and activism, a group of queer Swifties has come together to raise funds for two important causes: supporting LGBTQ+ youth and addressing concerns surrounding Matty Healy, lead vocalist of the band The 1975. This initiative was sparked after The 1975’s recent donation to the San Diego LGBT Center stirred controversy and disappointment among the LGBTQ+ community.
Earlier this month, The 1975 made headlines when they were pictured holding an oversized check made out to the San Diego LGBT Center for a sum of $500. However, it was later revealed that the donation was attributed to the band’s name but actually came from the San Diego venue Pechanga Arena, with the band’s name only appearing on the symbolic check. This incident drew criticism from queer Swifties who found the gesture inadequate.
Marki, a member of the Gaylor community, expressed their sentiments, stating, “Seeing a well-known band do a photo op with one of those giant checks for only $500 was comical, but also a bit insulting.” In response to their frustration with Healy and the band, Marki and fellow Gaylors decided to channel their emotions into something positive by launching a fundraiser to support LGBTQ+ causes.
The relationship between Taylor Swift’s fanbase, known as Swifties, and Matty Healy has been strained due to various controversies surrounding Healy’s actions, especially during his previous relationship with the pop star. The controversies include Healy’s criticism of the Malaysian government’s anti-LGBTQ+ laws, an on-stage kiss with a male bandmate, and inappropriate comments.
The fundraiser, initiated by Swiftie Bre, has gained significant traction, raising over $5,000 at the time of this report, surpassing the amount donated in The 1975’s name by more than tenfold. The campaign emphasizes the importance of the LGBTQ+ community receiving substantial support rather than mere pocket change from multi-millionaires.
Gaylors, a passionate segment within the Swiftie community, make up around 9% of Taylor Swift’s fanbase, according to Graphika, a company specializing in mapping online communities. This initiative showcases the power of collective action within the LGBTQ+ Swiftie community to make a meaningful impact on important causes.