Sara Quin, of Tegan and Sara, contributed a written entry to Revel & Riot, a blog promoting LGBTQ rights, awareness, and equality. Her message commends the strength and support of the band's fan base while also reflecting on how their public image as out, twin-sister musicians has changed.
While traveling to previously uunvisited countries on the world tour for their newest album Heartthrob, especially Eastern and Central Europe, Tegan and Sara were confronted with the social stigma their fans face by attending their concerts. On the other hand, Sara also notes that she and Tegan now have a more positive relationship with the press concerning their queer identity.
"I’m grateful that there has been so much progress made internationally in the fight for LGBTQ equality and being in this band has allowed us to experience that change personally all over the world. Our fan base is one of the most kind and understanding and their acceptance has allowed for a deeper love of ourselves," Sara wrote. "The correspondence we receive from them each night is often heart-wrenching and brave. I wake up daily to op-ed pieces and blogs written by impassioned and influential women (both straight and gay) that make me feel less alone. There is a vibrant community of queer friends and artists who share the experience of being proudly out and accepted widely but not negatively impacted or marginalized commercially."
Watch "Closer," Tegan and Sara's slightly retro single from Heartthrob:
