Jen Hatmaker Reflects on Backlash Over LGBTQIA+ Advocacy

HGTV host Jen Hatmaker recently shared her experiences following her public support for LGBTQIA+ rights during an interview on the “Jamie Kern Lima Show” podcast. Hatmaker discussed the significant backlash she faced from the religious community and how this shift in her advocacy has impacted her career and personal integrity.

In 2016, Jen and her then-husband, Brandon Hatmaker, publicly endorsed same-sex marriages, a decision that marked a pivotal moment in her life. She has since emerged as a vocal advocate for the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly transgender youth. Hatmaker expressed that living in her own integrity is invaluable, stating, “You cannot put a price on living in your own integrity. It’s priceless.” This sentiment, shared on September 16, 2023, illustrates her commitment to her beliefs despite the personal and professional costs involved.

Hatmaker explained that her evolving perspective on same-sex relationships stemmed from a deeper examination of biblical teachings. She described the process as one of “examining biblical lessons with an adult brain,” which allowed her to question previously held beliefs shaped by spiritual authorities. “I don’t believe that. I don’t think that’s true at all,” she asserted, highlighting her recognition of the harm caused by traditional doctrines.

The backlash from the evangelical community was swift and severe. Hatmaker recalled feeling “cognitive dissonance” as her views diverged from the principles she had long accepted. The impact of her advocacy was profound; she stated, “That was the end of my belonging in this space. It was the end of my career, as I knew it.” She understood that advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights would lead to significant personal loss, including the withdrawal of her bestselling books from stores “overnight” and the loss of numerous friendships and professional partnerships.

Despite these challenges, Hatmaker views her journey as a necessary fight for justice rather than a tragic loss. She noted, “I lost a lot of friends, lots a lot of partners, lost a lot of everything, I guess.” Nevertheless, she emphasized that her decisions were rooted in a moral obligation to support a marginalized community.

Hatmaker’s experience resonates with many within the religious community who privately share her views but fear repercussions for speaking out. She revealed that numerous religious leaders have reached out to her in private, expressing their agreement with her stance on LGBTQIA+ rights while fearing the fallout of public support. “I will have pastors, preachers, big para-ministry leaders give me their little, quiet, private DMs going, ‘I am 100 percent in alignment with you on this theologically but I will lose everything if I say it,’” she explained.

In her closing remarks, Hatmaker underscored the importance of allyship, stating, “We owe them our support. We owe them our truth. We owe them allyship. … That price is so cheap, compared to what you get and compared to what we owe the community.”

Through her candid reflections, Hatmaker highlights the complexities of navigating personal beliefs within a community that may not share those values. Her story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices many make in pursuit of justice and integrity, urging others to consider the importance of standing up for what is right, regardless of the cost.