The renowned singer, actress, and activist Cher told The Guardian in an exclusive and introspective interview that she is becoming increasingly concerned about the future of transgender rights and the course of American society. Cher, who has been at the forefront of numerous causes for decades, is known for her candor and persistent dedication to social justice. She spoke with a level of urgency and sensitivity that is uncommon from the superstar.
The growing number of legislative initiatives that threaten to take away the rights of transgender people has caused Cher, a longtime advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, to voice deep concern. Cher’s relationship with the transgender community is quite personal because she is the mother of Chaz Bono, a proud transgender man. She spoke passionately about how these legislation, which she views as part of a larger political assault on vulnerable communities, are, for her, not only political concerns but also issues of love and family.
Cher said, “I have a gay son, Chaz,” in a voice that was a little bit concerned and loving. “I have witnessed the courage, the suffering, and the challenges. And I can’t help but notice that now when I see the measures pertaining to transgender rights. I’m worried about the future for a lot of vulnerable people, not just my son. Cher’s concerns extend beyond the current difficulties; she is extremely disturbed by the broader change in American politics and culture that she perceives to be becoming more antagonistic to the principles of justice, equality, and inclusivity.
Cher acknowledged that the strain of the most recent presidential election and the political atmosphere that followed had severely impacted her physical and emotional well-being. It was really emotionally taxing. She admitted, “I believe I sobbed for days following the election results.” “It really hurt me, not just as a person, but as someone who’s always stood up for justice.” Her emotional distress at the time stemmed from a profound dread for the future of the nation and the people she loves about, not simply from her own personal disappointment.
Cher’s assessment of Donald Trump’s chances of winning reelection was among the most moving parts of her speech. The singer, who has always been outspoken in her disdain of the former president, was straightforward when discussing how the possibility of another term may affect her decision to remain in the nation. “I genuinely don’t know what I’ll do if Trump wins again. Staying in a nation that feels so divided and mired in its own rage and hatred is unthinkable. “I would give leaving some serious thought,” she disclosed. Politics isn’t the only factor. The moral compass is at issue. It concerns the kind of world we are constructing for our children.
Cher talked about her strong feeling of pride in her own background and the ability of art to break down barriers, even in the face of political and social unrest. While recognizing the continuous conflicts between Armenians and Azerbaijan, she spoke with pride about her Armenian heritage. “I will never forget where I come from,” Cher remarked. “Being Armenian is part of who I am, and it’s something I carry with me every day, no matter the challenges.”
Cher’s Christmas CD, her most recent creation, is evidence of her unwavering passion for music and her will to bring happiness even in the face of hardship. Her vocal prowess and her unwavering faith in the ability of creativity to unite people are both on display in the album, which includes collaborations with legendary performers like Stevie Wonder and Cyndi Lauper. Cher grinned and remarked, “I just love making art,” “It’s my way of staying hopeful, staying connected to the world.”
What really makes Cher unique, though, is her unwavering dedication to equality and justice, which transcends her art and activism. From women’s rights to environmental conservation, from racial equality to LGBTQ+ rights, she has spent decades using her celebrity and power to advocate for the causes that are most important to her. Her honesty and sincerity have made her a genuine symbol in the continuous struggle for justice, and she is still a ferocious supporter of the weakest members of society.
Cher’s life and work have demonstrated to us that being an icon is about more than simply notoriety; it’s also about changing the world, standing up for what’s right, and having the guts to speak up even when it’s difficult. Cher maintains her conviction that working together is the best path ahead in a time when so many people are interested in dividing.
Cher’s resolve holds firm as she looks to the future. “We have to come together, especially now,” she told us. As the world changes, we must adapt as well. Protecting one another and our rights is essential. We also need to do it with love, respect, and the conviction that we can improve the world. That is what I have always believed, and I always will.
