Jay-Z’s mother, #GloriaCarter, was among the many influential people to be honored at this year’s #GLAAD Media Awards; and the speech she delivered was a message many needed to hear.
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On Sunday, Carter accepted a special recognition award from Robin Roberts for her contribution to Jay’s song “Smile” from his album “4:44.” As some may know she recently came out to her son about her sexuality which she had covered up for years.
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To highlight his mother’s big step, he wrote in the song, “Mama had four kids, but she’s a lesbian. Had to pretend so long that she’s a thespian. Had to hide in the closet, so she medicate. Society shame and the pain was too much to take. Cried tears of joy when you fell in love. Don’t matter to me if it’s a him or her. I just wanna see you smile through all the hate.”
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Because of Hov’s love and support she says she is now free to love without bound.
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“Smile’ became a reality because I shared with my son who I am… For me that was the first time I spoke to anyone about who I really am, my son cried and said, ‘It must have been horrible to live that way for so long.’ My life wasn’t horrible I chose to protect my family from ignorance.”
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She added, “Love gave me the courage to take the power that I allowed other people to have over my life for fear of them revealing my secret… I am a human being who has a right to love who I love. So everybody, just smile, be free.”
