JoJo Siwa Reveals Pressure to Identify as Lesbian: “I Boxed Myself In”
JoJo Siwa, the former Dance Moms star and Nickelodeon sensation, has always been open about her journey with identity and sexuality. After coming out as part of the LGBTQ+ community in 2021, she initially identified as pansexual before later saying she felt more aligned with being gay. However, in a recent interview, Siwa revealed that she felt pressured to label herself as a lesbian—a decision she now says “boxed [her] in.”
JoJo’s Struggle with Labels
In a candid conversation on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Siwa shared her evolving perspective on sexuality and public perception.
“I remember when I first came out, I was like, ‘I’m pansexual,’ and then I was like, ‘No, I’m gay.’ But I think I just felt this pressure to pick a label,” she admitted. “Society wants you to fit into a box, and I think I boxed myself in.”
Siwa’s comments highlight a broader issue within the LGBTQ+ community—where individuals, especially public figures, often feel compelled to define their sexuality in rigid terms. While labels can provide clarity, they can also feel restrictive for those still exploring their identity.
Public Reaction and Social Media Responses
Fans and LGBTQ+ advocates have had mixed reactions to Siwa’s revelation. Some applauded her honesty, while others expressed frustration over what they perceived as backtracking.
On X (formerly Twitter), one user wrote:
“JoJo Siwa is just being real. Sexuality is fluid, and we shouldn’t force people into labels.”
Another countered:
“It’s confusing when celebs keep changing their labels. Just say you’re queer and move on.”
Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ activist and writer Alok Vaid-Menon weighed in, tweeting:
“Labels are tools, not prisons. JoJo’s journey reminds us that self-discovery is ongoing. Let people evolve.”
Watch JoJo Siwa’s Interview Clip Here:
The Pressure of Being a Queer Role Model
At just 21, Siwa has become an icon for young LGBTQ+ fans. Her rainbow-themed merchandise and unapologetic personality have made her a beacon of queer joy. However, she admits that fame comes with expectations.
“I have so many young fans who look up to me, and I never want to let them down,” she told People Magazine. “But I also have to be true to myself. If I don’t understand my own identity, how can I be a role model?”
Psychologist Dr. Lauren Beach, who specializes in LGBTQ+ mental health, explains:
“Young celebrities often face immense pressure to define their sexuality early. But identity is a journey, not a destination. It’s okay to change how you identify as you learn more about yourself.”
What’s Next for JoJo Siwa?
Despite the scrutiny, Siwa remains focused on her career and personal growth. She recently launched a new music project and continues to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights—though she’s stepping back from rigid labels.
“Right now, I’m just JoJo,” she said with a smile. “And that’s enough.”
Final Thoughts
JoJo Siwa’s experience underscores an important conversation about identity, pressure, and self-acceptance. While labels can be empowering, they shouldn’t feel like constraints. As society evolves, perhaps the most important label we can embrace is simply: human.
