Anita Bryant, a figure synonymous with anti-LGBTQ+ activism, passed away at the age of 84 from cancer in Edmonton, Oklahoma. Her life and career were marked by her vehement opposition to gay rights, which ultimately overshadowed her early achievements as a singer and beauty pageant queen. Bryant's legacy remains a cautionary tale of the impact of hate-driven campaigns.
Early Life and Career
Born in Oklahoma, Bryant gained fame in the late 1950s as the winner of the Miss Oklahoma beauty pageant. Her vocal talents led her to perform for military personnel, evangelical tours with Billy Graham, and at events like the 1971 Super Bowl. She became a household name as the spokesperson for the Florida Citrus Commission, promoting orange juice from 1969 to 1980.
Despite her successful career, Bryant's image shifted dramatically in the 1970s due to her outspoken views against the LGBTQ+ community. Her "Save Our Children" campaign in 1977 sought to repeal anti-discrimination laws in Dade County, Florida, which protected individuals based on sexual orientation.
Controversial Activism
Bryant's rhetoric during her campaigns was inflammatory and dehumanizing. She equated homosexuality with deviant behavior and famously stated, "If gays are granted rights, next we'll have to give rights to prostitutes and to people who sleep with St. Bernards and to nail biters." Her words and actions positioned her as a precursor to the modern-day far-right discourse against the LGBTQ+ community.
Her activism garnered the support of figures like Rev. Jerry Falwell, who shared her views and founded the Moral Majority, further entrenching religious and political opposition to gay rights. During a live television appearance in 1977, Bryant was hit with a banana cream pie by activist Thom L. Higgins. The incident highlighted the contentious nature of her public persona and the intense opposition she faced from LGBTQ+ activists.
Impact and Backlash
Bryant's campaigns galvanized the gay rights movement, prompting organized protests and boycotts, including a notable boycott of Florida orange juice. Her actions inadvertently strengthened the resolve of LGBTQ+ activists, who viewed her as a symbol of the discrimination they were fighting against.
The personal costs of her activism were significant. Bryant faced immense backlash, including death threats, the loss of sponsorships, and canceled performances. Her attempt to enter religious leadership was thwarted due to disagreements over her extreme views. By 1980, the Florida Citrus Commission had distanced itself from her, and she divorced her first husband, Bob Green, further isolating her from her previous support base.
Later Life
In her later years, Bryant experienced financial difficulties, declaring bankruptcy in 1997. She largely withdrew from public life but continued to justify her past actions, claiming that her opposition to LGBTQ+ rights was aligned with her religious beliefs. In 2011, she expressed no regret for her activism, maintaining that she acted in accordance with her understanding of divine will.
Her familial relationships were strained as well, particularly with her granddaughter Sarah Green, who came out as gay in 2021. Bryant reportedly advised her to pray for a change in her sexual orientation, highlighting the persistent divide between her views and the evolving acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Legacy
Despite her death, Bryant's legacy continues to evoke strong reactions. She is remembered as both a cautionary figure in the history of LGBTQ+ rights and a catalyst for greater activism and awareness. Her story underscores the ongoing struggle for equality and the resilience of those who fight against discrimination.
If you or someone you know is struggling with issues related to sexual orientation or gender identity, support is available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides confidential support 24/7. Additionally, organizations like The Trevor Project and Trans Lifeline offer crisis intervention and community support services specifically for LGBTQ+ youth and adults.
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