Imagine Dragons lead singer Dan Reynolds has shared a strong message of support for LGBTIQ+ youth.
The musician, who is of Mormon faith, made the speech while performing at the Love Loud Festival over the weekend in Salt Lake City, Utah.
All proceeds from the festival were donated to LGBTIQ+ youth charities, including The Trevor Project, the Tegan and Sara Foundation, and Encircle.
“I was just informed that we have officially raised our goal tonight of over $1 million," Reynolds announced to the crowd.
“You did this by coming tonight from all walks of life [and] all sides.”
He continued: “I hope that tonight and today, you know, you know, that your sexuality is pure. And it’s true. And it’s clean. I hope that you know, you are needed. We need you. I don’t want to hear any more stories of youth taking their lives in Utah. We must change our culture. We must change the way we see each other.
“To our LGBTQ youth, stay with us every day. We need you, we love you [and] we accept you. Your love is valid, it’s pure, it’s true [and] it’s beautiful.
“We stand with you – Love Loud will be here. Peace, love, equality. We’ll see you again soon.”
It's not the first time Reynolds has spoken out about his support for the LGBTIQ+ community, with the singer previously participating in a documentary called Believer, which explores how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints treats its LGBTIQ+ members.
“One of the reasons I’ve felt such a need to speak out on this is I’ve gotten countless emails and letters from fans around the world who said, ‘I’m gay, but I know you’re Mormon so that probably means you don’t accept my lifestyle, but I love ‘It’s Time’ and your music," Reynolds .
He continued: "That was devastating and it broke my heart to get letters like that. I’ve written back to these people to tell them, 'No, I do support you and I’m here for you.' It’s been a driving force for me to raise awareness and make a difference and not just sit back to let people feel that hurt."
