This Pride Month, Billboard asked artists to write a series of love letters to their LGBTQ fans, highlighting what the community means to them as people and as artists. Below, J-pop idol Shinjiro Atae breaks down his decision to come out in 2024, thanking the LGBTQ+ community for their “warm embrace” and “unconditional love.”

What helped me make my decision to come out last year was the love and compassion the LGBTQ community radiated into the world. I saw and felt their commitment to living their truth which inspired me to take the step to show the world my authentic self.

When I first decided to come out, I feared that I would lose many fans, friends, and family members. I thought my career would be over and I would have to accept that reality. However, after opening up to the world I was reminded about the unconditional love I’m surrounded with. Through coming out to the public, I felt that I grew even closer with those around me.

Everyday, I feel the warm embrace of the LGBTQ community. Their courage and dedication to making the world a better place inspires me to continue to create music and radiate positive energy into the world.

To those who are reading this, wherever you are in your journey in life, I want to remind you all that you are not alone in this world. Community and a sense of belonging are always out there. Never give up on finding those who make you feel like yourself!

Love,
Shinjiro