

Keke Palmer Opens Up About Her Sexuality & Never Feeling "Straight Enough" Or "Gay Enough"
Over the years, Keke Palmer has solidified herself as a prominent voice of her generation who doesn’t shy away from speaking her truth. Now, the 29-year-old actress is peeling back the layers and opening up about her sexuality and gender identity.
According to Variety, the Nopestar was presented the Vanguard Award at the LGBT Center’s The Gala in Los Angeles, where she took time to reflect on her own identity journey.
“Sexuality and identity for me has always been confusing,” Keke shared during her acceptance speech. “I never felt straight enough. I never felt gay enough. And I never felt woman enough. I never felt man enough. You know, I always felt like I was a little bit of everything.”
KeKe recalls that she’d often “lead with masculinity” and how that complicated her perspective on the power within herself. “And as a woman, I’ve always been met with so much disdain, you know what I mean? I think so much of that came from who I thought I had to be to get respect, admiration, and love,” she says. “And I’ve always really wanted to be like my father…to want to be taken seriously and not diminish because I was a woman. You know, that’s always been a source of — I guess you would say — pain and resentment.”
Araya Doheny/Getty Images for Los Angeles LGBT Center
The moment of reflection brought on an emotional response from the Nickelodeon alum. “Why did my gender have to define the power I have in the world? And why does my gender get to decide my sexuality?” she asked.
“You know, since I was younger, I always questioned the boxes I was forced to be in and it starts with who you’re supposed to be as a child. You’re supposed to be as a Black person or whatever the background you are from… Then those walls just try to cave you in from every damn angle, who you are as a creative, who you are as a friend.”
She concluded the thoughtful speech by noting her gratitude for being accepted by the LGBTQ+ community as an ally for which she was honored for. “I’m truly so grateful to be seen in this room because I know I’m surrounded by people who know without a doubt what it’s like to decide to be who you are in a world that tells you to be everything but yourself.”
Keke’s Vanguard Award is the perfect illustration of why allyship and activism go hand-in-hand. With voices like Keke’s sharing her truth about self-discovery in sexuality and gender identity, it, in turn, inspires others to do the same.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Araya Doheny/Getty Images for Los Angeles LGBT Center
Aley Arion is a writer and digital storyteller from the South, currently living in sunny Los Angeles. Her site, yagirlaley.com, serves as a digital diary to document personal essays, cultural commentary, and her insights into the Black Millennial experience. Follow her at @yagirlaley on all platforms!
Black women are not a monolith. We all are deserving of healing and wholeness despite what we've been through, how much money we have in the bank, or what we look like. Most importantly, we are enough—even when we are not working, earning, or serving.
Welcome to Black Girl Whole, your space to find the wellness routine that aligns with you! This brand-new marketplace by xoNecole is a safe space for Black women to activate their healing, find the inspiration to rest, and receive reassurance that we are one small act away from finding our happiness.
Want to discover where you are on your wellness journey? You don't have to look far. In partnership with European Wax Center, we're bringing you a customized wellness quiz to help you up your wellness game. Answer our short series of questions to figure out which type of wellness lover you are, what you need to bring more balance into your life, and then go deeper by shopping products geared towards clearing your mind, healing your body, and soothing your spirit.
Ready to get whole? Take our quiz now!
Decoding Angel Number 222: A Cosmic Sign Of Balance & Self-Love
You've probably experienced it – that feeling when you keep seeing a series of repeating numbers that seem to pop up everywhere you look. From the clock's time to the digits on your receipt, it's like the universe is trying to tell you something. Well, sis, welcome to the fascinating world of angel numbers! Though angel numbers can comprise different cosmic sequences, today, we are specifically decoding the mystique of the angel number 222, a symbol that carries a profound message of balance and trust.
What Is The Significance Of Angel Number 222?
Finding Harmony in Balance
Life is a delicate dance of balancing different elements. The angel number 222 underscores the importance of balance in our lives. It's a reminder to seek balance between various aspects – work and play, ambition and relaxation, and everything in between. It's no secret that a well-balanced life can bring a sense of contentment and fulfillment.
Trusting the Journey
In a world where uncertainty often reigns, trust becomes a precious commodity. Manifesting takes time and patience, and when the universe communicates to her through the angel number 222, it encourages you to trust the process of manifesting the life you desire and that things are aligning in ways you might not yet perceive.
Embracing Self-Discovery and Self-Love
In an era of constant change and self-evolution, the themes of self-discovery and self-love resonate deeply. Angel number 222 encourages us to embrace all aspects of ourselves – past experiences, current passions, and future aspirations. It's a reminder that self-love starts with accepting our entire being.
Cosmic Validation for Your Goals
Whether you're embarking on a new business venture, seeking financial stability, or working on personal growth, angel number 222 acts as a cosmic cheerleader for your goals. Think of it as a gentle affirmation that you're headed in the right direction.
Delmaine Donson/Getty Images
What does the angel number 222 mean in your career?
As you navigate the twists and turns of your professional life, the universe sometimes sends us little messages to guide us. One such message is the angel number 222, a cosmic indicator of balance, trust, and growth in your career journey. So, let's explore what this angel number means for your career path.
Balance
The angel number 222 reminds you of the importance of balance in your career. Ambition is dope, but not at the expense of your well-being. This number urges you to find an equilibrium between your professional goals and your personal health and happiness. Ultimately, your career should leave you feeling fulfilled, not overwhelmed.
Trust
The wisdom of the angel number 222 serves as a cosmic reminder to trust the process of growth. In career specifically, the universe is asking you to trust that your career path is unfolding as it should. This number encourages you to have faith in your abilities, make decisions with confidence, and believe that each step you take is leading you closer to your aspirations.
New Beginnings
The angel number 222 is a supportive companion that signifies new beginnings and encourages you to embrace these opportunities with an open heart. Approach new career endeavors with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. This number is your cosmic cheerleader, reminding you that you have the capacity to create your own success story.
Communication
The angel number 222 emphasizes the importance of clear and open communication in your career. Whether you're networking, presenting your ideas, or collaborating with colleagues, let this number guide you toward meaningful exchanges that foster growth and understanding.
What does the angel number 222 mean in love?
In the realm of angel numbers, even matters of the heart are not left untouched. As such, the cosmic sequence 222 also has meaning when it comes to love. So, let's get into what the angel number 222 has to say about love, relationships, and the delicate balance of emotions.
Balance
Just as balance is crucial in every other aspect of life, it also matters in love. The angel number 222 serves as a reminder that harmony and balance are essential for nurturing a healthy, loving relationship. Love blossoms when both partners respect each other's individuality, creating a symphony of emotions that resonates with mutual understanding.
Trust
The angel number 222 urges you to trust the journey of love. It's a reassurance that the path you're on is guided by unseen forces that support your connection. Through ups and downs, this cosmic number reminds you to trust the process.
Vulnerability
The angel number 222 asks you to embrace vulnerability and authenticity in your love life. The universe wants you to allow yourself to be open and genuine with your partner. This number's energy guides you to shed any masks and share your true self, fostering a love that's pure and genuine.
Communication
Angel number 222 encourages open and honest dialogue, ensuring that misunderstandings are cleared, and emotions are shared. Take this as a sign to explore the depths of your partner's feelings through meaningful conversations.
What does the angel number 222 mean in money?
Money is the means by which we achieve our goals and dreams, and sometimes, it's also a source of stress. Enter the angel number 222, a cosmic message that offers insights into your financial journey. 222 can have insightful meaning for abundance, your relationship with money, and financial security.
Balance
The angel number 222 is a gentle reminder that, much like balance in life, balance in your financial pursuits is essential. This number encourages you to strike a balance between your financial goals and your overall well-being. It's not just about the numbers; it's about achieving financial success while maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life.
Trust
Money matters can sometimes bring about feelings of insecurity and doubt. The angel number 222 is asking you to trust in the abundance that the universe provides and trust that your financial needs will be met. This number is a cosmic affirmation that you are supported in your journey toward financial stability and prosperity.
New Beginnings
The angel number 222 signifies a new beginning in your financial journey. Embrace these chances with enthusiasm and trust that they can lead to greater financial security and success.
Communication
The angel number 222 encourages clear and open dialogue about money – with partners, advisors, and even yourself. Let it remind you that honest conversations can lead to informed choices and financial empowerment.
In the tapestry of life, angel numbers weave threads of guidance and insight. The angel number 222, with its emphasis on balance, trust, and self-discovery, offers a roadmap to a more harmonious journey.
Let’s make things inbox official! Sign up for the xoNecole newsletter for daily love, wellness, career, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox.
Featured image by Diamond Dogs/Getty Images