The former Disney star (and Missy Elliott back up dancer) opened up to Teen Vogue about her sexuality recently, and we're so inspired.
Alyson fell in love with her dance class instructor, recalling how amazing the experience was.
“She and I continued to hang out and began sending good morning texts,” Alyson wrote. “Then we made dinner and watched Orange Is the New Black. Then we vented and supported each other. Then cuddled. Then kissed and kissed some more. OK, we were in a relationship. I fell in love with a woman.”
While she was falling for her instructor, she wasn't ready to accept her sexuality, even admitting to going to therapy for years.
She was “trying to identify the source of [her] attraction to [the instructor].”
She continued, “Like many, I had internalised some of the harmful beliefs and misconceptions about LGBTQ people and identities. At the time, I thought, ‘Maybe it’s because I moved away from my father as a child and didn’t have typical male guidance in my life. Maybe it’s because I’ve experienced abuse from men and therefore I’m scared of intimacy with them (and in general). Maybe it’s because open sexuality is prevalent in my artistic community and I subconsciously just want to fit in. Maybe I actually want to be her, and I’m mistaking idolisation for romance. Anything besides being gay, please!'”
She was also afraid because of her faith. She admits that she spoke to “pastors and community members [who] tried to reverse and eliminate” the attraction. She was also told that her career would be ruined if she came out. But she didn't care anymore.
“I, Alyson, am attracted to men, women, and people who identify in other ways,” she stated. “I can love people of every gender identity and expression. It is the soul that captivates me. It is the love we can build and the goodness we can contribute to the world by supporting each other’s best journeys.”
So proud!
