Instagram/@madonna
Madonna had entered her social realm to market the weekend of Pride with her bright and joyous album of pictures baptized with her love for the LGBTQ+ community, her kids, and music. From the very beginning of contemporary music up to the new millennium, the Pop icon has consistently been on the forefront of advocacy. In between the private and public moments came the performances of her daughters Esther and Stella, ready to explode reactions from its supporters and detractors alike, something further establishing just how much of a lightning rod Madonna remains for public discourse in 2024.
Advertisement
A caption set to provoke from the newspaper stand and more street-style magazine cover art. In a rather confident pose, Madonna leans against a brick wall all clad in dark denims, while her companion, the edgier one of the two, was down on one knee with full attitude in stark white, tattoo-work-across-arms sort of attire. Free-floating above, a bold rainbow heart graphic anchors it firmly in the Pride realm, tying it with Madonna’s rights alliance from the queer side for decades.
The comment thread was packed with gratitude for years of advocacy; over forty, they said, and the title “Queen of Pride” was bandied about. “Thank you for always using your platform and speaking out for us,” said one. Another followed up: “Not sure the generation after me understands Madonna’s influence on gay acceptance in America. A true ally and hero.” That thought was shared by many who view her as the great forerunner of lesbian and gay visibility in mass media.
There were many who did respond, however, and very unkindly at that. One critical remark went on to state that Madonna was a “straight cis woman who makes money out of using Pride to look progressive when many trans women are homeless, that’s deeply problematic.” A serious debate ensued. Some defended Madonna, declaring she is a bisexual woman who has stood with marginalized communities; others argued that it was important not to allow Madonna’s privileges to overshadow the real issues of the less loud queer communities.
Then, just as the debates began to flare, several bystanders weighed in. “Mother new music pleaseeee,” one pleaded, followed by a heart emoji. The other quipped, “No matter who’s in office because Madonna will always be the queen.” There was a moment of crass humor: “Pussy with pussy is also so juicy,” which, true to her brand, went unanswered.
These comments and the post bring to light some of Madonna’s family life, with many commenters complimenting the talents of her daughters. “Your girls so talented,” stated one, referencing the performance by Stella and Esther of their original song. This bit of kindness helped immerse some of the followers in an otherwise bitter discourse, as it reminded them that for Madonna, Pride does not just stand as a cause to champion in the outside world, but rather a deep-rooted aspect of her very being as a mother and an artist.
Advertisement
Love her or hate her, Madonna’s post did the one thing she has always done best: incite a conversation. Whether that be celebrating queer joy or being questioned for allyship, Madonna is still one of the few cultural powerhouses that let’s face it, will never be ignored. And if those comments are anything to go by, people are very much still interested in what she has to say next, or at least what she posts.