Alex Newell defends the LGBTQ+ community against Republicans: 'Read a book. Learn some words.'

This is the energy we need!

Alex Newell is a titan in the LGBTQ+ community as one of the first nonbinary performers to win a Tony Award. Since their early days on Glee, Newell has paved the way for queer representation on the big and small screens.

Now, the actor is starring alongside Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick, Allison Janney, and other notable celebs in the thrilling new film Another Simple Favor.

"When my agent asked me if I wanted to have my White Lotus motif, I said, 'Absolutely! Why not?' I've always admired everyone in this film. It was a dream to get to work with all of them. I pinch myself every now and again because it is a dream come true. Another one, thank you! It's an honor, truly," Newell tells PRIDE.

Queer visibility is needed now more than ever as the Republican Party continues to push policies that harm the LGBTQ+ community in the United States.

Newell is well aware that their platform serves as a source of inspiration to anyone who may be a bit scared during these trying times.

"It means the world. It shows that there's value in telling the story the way that I tell the story. Somebody's going to resonate with it. Somebody's going to see themselves in it. It's always a pleasure and an honor. We have to check in on each other and really come together as a community."

Besides uplifting queer people around the world, Newell also has an important message for conservatives who oppose equality.

"Read a book! Open a book. Read it and don't let it just be a picture book! Get a dictionary. Learn some words. Sorry, learn to read! Honestly, please. It takes just like knowing that blue is blue and green is green."

Another Simple Favor is streaming now on Prime Video. To see the full interview with Alex Newell, check out the video at the top of the page.