Diana King

Shocking for some, suspected by others, singer Diana King yesterday announced that she is a lesbian.

The Facebook announcement that was made at about 9 a.m. on Thursday, was met with mostly positive responses but there were also some negative reactions.

King described herself as 'a woman, mother, aunt, Jamaican, American, artiste, singer, songwriter, band leader, friend, lover' and then the big announcement, "AND YES!!!ÉI AM A LESBIAN."

Admitting that the lengthy post would be met by persons asking 'who cares', she said she decided to answer the frequently asked questions because it felt right.

private person

"I answer now, not because it's anyone's business but because it feels right with my soul, and I believe by not answering or hiding it all these years, somehow makes it appear as if I am ashamed of it or that I believe it is wrong," said the Shy Guy singer.

"I am a private person, but sometimes, one has to step outside of their comfort zone to grow. This here, that I'm doing, is my road. Not everyone will or is required to travel this way. Some people will carry this fact about themselves to the grave and that's their prerogative but, a "good" reputation can be a gigantic load in a girl's backpack. I know now that it's time I fully practice the meaning of my face tattoo, which is Love yourself, live Yourself."

She noted that she has always been afraid to admit that she is a lesbian openly because of the possible negative effects on her career, family and loved ones.

"The deep fear that I've had, especially that my own Jamaican people will judge me and not accept me because of their homophobia has been a heavy burden," she said.

This deep fear, she says, also stems from the fact that, "the harsh reality that people like me are persecuted, beaten, jailed, raped and murdered every day just for being who they are or just even being suspected of it. It's what I saw too many times growing up in Spanish Town and living in Kingston and it scared me to death. I couldn't wait to get out of there."

King added that she is not seeking approval, as "the people I love and care about the most, love me no matter what and my true fans love my music and my positive energy on and off-stage."

And there were a lot of people supporting the singer. One of the first posts came from a user with the name Tanya Stephens who said, "I want to speak but I can't stop crying."

Another comment said: "That has been rumoured for yeeeaaars, but until confirmed by you, that's all it was. I am sure you won't lose any fans over this, and may possibly gain some for your bra-very. It's the age we live in where people are free to be who they are - as hard as it is for some to admit. Keep the faith!"

"For me you're an amazing singer and I love your music ... I don't care your private life or sexual orientation that's all," another Facebook post said.

While some people were inspired, others were not pleased with the news.

"Corruption ma people had enough! Not a fan anymore," one person said.

Another person who seemed angry said, "I've always known you were lesbian, just wonder why did you give birth to two children? Did you think this would deny your true feelings. Hope you don't grow them to be gay ... No gay round here, mi a straight gal mi nuh waan nuh gal fi ... mi, gwey wid onuh dutty living."

Diana King