Janelle Monae feels proud to be "queer, young black woman in America".
The 32-year-old musician recently revealed she considers herself to be pansexual, meaning she’s attracted to people regardless of their sex or gender identity, and Janelle has now stressed the need for people to proud of who they are.
Asked whether she wants to pose the same questions regarding sexuality as her mentor Prince, Janelle replied: "I think that is important for people to be proud of their identity.
"I am very proud to be a queer, young black woman in America. I’m proud of who I am."
Janelle – whose new album is called ‘Dirty Computer’ – claimed it’s important to be open about her sexuality for the benefit of her fans.
The American star – who initially identified as being bisexual, before saying last week that she’s pansexual – told CBS: "I love myself, and I want for all the ‘Dirty Computers’ around the world to feel seen, to be heard, and to feel celebrated and to know that I’m right there with you."
Last week, Janelle told Rolling Stone magazine that she considers herself to be a "free ass woman" after learning about pansexuality.
The label is distinct from bisexuality because it recognises sexual attraction beyond the gender binary concepts of male and female.
The ‘Tightrope’ singer – who has frequently expressed her support for the LGBTQ community – said: "Being a queer black woman in America, someone who has been in relationships with both men and women – I consider myself to be a free-ass motherf***er.
"Then later I read about pansexuality and was like, ‘Oh, these are things that I identify with too.’ I’m open to learning more about who I am."
Janelle Monae: I’m proud to be queer
