Jordan Stephens, renowned for his music with Rizzle Kicks and his acting roles, has always been a vocal LGBTQ+ ally. Recently, he found himself in a thought-provoking conversation that shed light on the double standards surrounding queer spaces and sexualisation.
The incident occurred in a sauna at his local gym, where Stephens overheard two men discussing their experiences in gay bars. This encounter led to a deeper discussion about comfort, sexualisation, and the nuances of different social spaces.
Stephens’ experience in queer spaces
Stephens has always appreciated the joy and non-judgmental atmosphere of queer venues in London, such as Dalston Superstore and The Divine. These spaces, he believes, offer a unique sense of freedom and safety that he values deeply.
During the sauna conversation, one of the men expressed his discomfort with the idea of being sexualised by gay men. Stephens recalled the man saying, “I don’t know if I can relax ’cause I don’t know what they’re thinking.” This statement prompted Stephens to reflect on the hypocrisy he sees in how some straight men behave in different social settings.
The confrontation and its implications
Stephens responded by pointing out the double standard, stating, “Yet you’re willing to be in a straight space where you’re doing the same thing to women.” He highlighted the discomfort that straight men might feel when being sexualised, despite their own behaviour in heterosexual spaces.
“So you know that there’s a level of discomfort with experiencing the idea that you might be being sexualised, but you are willing to be the person doing it in a whole other space,” Stephens explained. He emphasized the importance of creating environments where everyone can feel comfortable and safe, regardless of their sexual orientation.
Stephens’ advocacy and recent activities
Stephens’ commitment to the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond this conversation. He has been actively involved in various initiatives, including attending the Trans Mission Live benefit concert. This event raised funds for organisations like Not a Phase and the Good Law Project.
At the event, Stephens shared his belief that straight men could benefit from experiencing queer spaces. “Honestly, I feel like straight men will benefit from being in these spaces,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of asking questions and learning about the trans community’s efforts to break barriers and push boundaries.
Stephens’ actions and words continue to inspire and challenge societal norms, fostering a more inclusive and understanding world.
