American Idol 2016 runner-up La’Porsha Renae has issued an apology this past week for comments she made regarding new anti-gay legislation in her home state of Mississippi. The almost American Idol winner was asked in a press conference for her opinion on the new legislation, which allows religious organizations and private businesses to refuse service to gays & lesbians. Her response quickly generated a major backlash against the newly signed Motown Records singer.
“I am one of the people who don’t really agree with that lifestyle,” La’Porsha Renae told reporters when asked about her thoughts on the new anti-gay legislation in Mississippi. She added that she does “have a lot of friends and a lot of people that I love dearly who are gay and homosexual.” However, she said she feels people should “just respect each other’s differences and opinions and move on.”
The American Idol star’s comments immediately resulted in a slew of negative responses in the press and on social media. La’Porsha Renae rapidly backpedaled on her statement regarding the legislation, especially her use of language. The powerhouse singer told TVLine.com she had been “offensive by using the word ‘lifestyle'” to describe gays & lesbians.
In addition, La’Porsha Renae stated that she was not up on the details of the Mississippi legislation, titled HB1523, but she was very much against any laws enforcing discrimination toward any group. “I deeply apologize,” she said.
Since when is saying ‘lifestyle’ offensive???! This is ridiculous. How about people respect her for her beliefs instead of telling her she’s being ‘offensive’? Respect goes both ways.
@ Val., I am with you .
Because being homosexual is not a lifestyle just like being white is also not a lifestyle. Driving a hybrid or selling narcotics are lifestyle choices. Being gay is not. There is nothing to argue.
I agree
Yes, just like being black is a lifestyle choice. Shall we bring back the old days where businesses could refuse people service based on skin colour? Get real.
I would argue that it is ridiculous to turn on someone who is trying, in her own way, to support you. Gay people are viciously ready to attack anyone – even other gay people – over verbage. If they want people to see them as decent members of society then they need to act in a more decent and civil manner toward other people. Show a little of the love and acceptance they want. Respect is the one thing you won’t earn with anger and vitriol.
Amen. Also it’s being a hypocrit. Gay/Lesbian community want to be respected for “just being who they are but as soon as someone disagrees with your thinking, like La Porsha, then you bash her. She has absolutely nothing to be sorry about. And despite the haters she is truly talented.
Oh my gosh, don’t apologize for your opinion, they asked for it!!! And quit being politically correct!!!