“The Lessons of ‘Montero’” (2022-2023)

When prompted to discuss a controversy in my last essay progression for “Advanced College Essay,” I knew I had the perfect opportunity to highlight one of my favorite artists, Lil Nas X. Despite constant criticism from conservative Christians, Nas has employed his platform to support LGBTQIA+ people numerous times in both a lucrative and uniquely artistic manner. I admire his commitment to advocating for his community and, on a simpler level, his ability to produce catchy bops. 

During the brainstorming and researching phases of my work, reports on the “Don’t Say Gay” bill flooded nearly every news channel and social media app. After a few searches on the bill’s tenets and its creators’ mission, I realized its pertinence with regards to media that showcases sexuality, like Nas’s controversial music video, “Montero.” Various questions boggled my headspace: Why are some politicians and church leaders so focused on limiting resources for children to learn about gender and sexuality? How can we open and normalize conversations about the LGBTQIA+ community, so children can safely investigate their own identities?

With an abundance of questions to address, I deepened my research. Reading about individual queer experiences, like those of religion professor Ashon Crawley and student activist Will Larkins, alongside academic sources, like those of professor of practical theology Boyung Lee and author Tracey Skelton, helped me generate my analysis and conclusions. While much has changed in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights, many political, social, and cultural forces still prevent young people from safely exploring and embracing their sexual identities. Reshaping our education systems and religious teachings can help dismantle discrimination and cultivate kinder environments for children to accept themselves.

Olivia Federici, ‘25, studies media, culture, and communication at Steinhardt. Born and raised in the small town of Oxford, Connecticut, she came to NYU to vigorously pursue traditional coursework and immerse herself in the social fabric of New York City. During the school year, she serves as an Admissions Ambassador for the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, as well as a Writing Tutor in the Writing Center. Off campus, she embarks on photo walks, learning from those she meets along the way. Olivia’s interest in hearing and embracing people’s stories grounds her exploration of gender and sexuality and her focus on individual voices in this essay.