Josh Kiszka of Greta Van Fleet comes out publicly in statement

Greta Van Fleet leader joseph kiszka has come out publicly in a new statement on his social networks, which advocates for LGBTQ + rights in the state of Tennessee, where he lives.

“Where I have made home in Tennessee, lawmakers are proposing bills that threaten the freedom of love. It is imperative that I speak my truth not only for myself, but in hopes of changing hearts, minds, and laws in Tennessee and beyond,” the singer wrote.

“These issues are especially close to my heart as I have been in a same-sex loving relationship with my partner for the past 8 years. Those close to me know this, but it is important for me to share it publicly.

“Over the years, the outpouring of love for the LGBTQ+ community has been resounding, but there is still work to be done for LGBTQ+ rights in TN, the nation, and the world. In response to the exceptional support of my latest post, I wanted to share how we can all continue to advocate for this courageous cause.

The vocalist added Instagram handles for a variety of LGBTQ+ organizations, then continued: “The LGBTQ+ community is a cultural mainstay that consistently champions positivity and acceptance through art, music, literature, film, and what have you. more importantly, legislation.

“The greatest mortal gift of all is our ability to love, and as we travel through time, may our greater understanding of the matter around us and within us teach us to love ever more deeply,” he wrote.

Several fellow musicians commented in support of Kiszka’s statement, including dirty honeywho wrote: “We couldn’t support you more!”. Mac Saturn he also commented, writing, “So proud of you bro! We’re in your corner.”

READ MORE: How 10 Punk + Metal Bands Support LGBTQ+ Rights

See his full post below.

Tennessee introduced 27 bills that would limit LGBTQ+ rights this year, two of which have passed, making members of the LGBTQ+ community more susceptible to discrimination as they would no longer be protected by the laws state laws against discrimination, according to the Washington Post. One of the bills, signed by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, would restrict drag performances, but it was blocked by a federal judge.

“This is the year that things fell apart in Tennessee,” said Sarah Warbelow, director of the human rights campaign saying. “We’ve seen a spate of anti-LGBTQ bills in recent years, but this year they’ve been introduced earlier than ever, they’re more extreme, and they’ve grown in number.”

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