In The LGBTQ Community, We Are Visionaries When It Comes To Art, Royal Cromwell 

Finally taking a stand for himself and others in the LGBTQ+ community, male model Royal Cromwell is living his truth. Despite the obstacles he faced because of his sexual orientation and identity, Royal now sees the fruits that his tree bears. Cromwell’s confidence and courage have positioned him as a fashion expert in Birmingham, Alabama.

Who is Royal Cromwell? Where are you from?
Royal Cromwell is a colorful, vivid light. He was born in Atlanta but is from Newark, New Jersey, and currently resides in Birmingham, Alabama.

Have you had any backlash being open about your sexuality? If so, how do you respond?
Yes. I’ve had backlash in multiple areas of my life—family, friends, the workplace, etc. For a while, it bothered me but the more I had to deal with it I started to learn to care less. It was because while I was living my life things were going right for me while theirs were either falling apart or at a standstill. People will be jealous just because you’re walking in your purpose and they’re not. Just walk on by is my advice to anyone.

How does fashion and pride correlation work?
Fashion and pride connect on the lines of creativity. Many individuals in the LGBTQ community are artistic. Men like me are visionaries when it comes to art. However, when we are given boundaries, our visions are dimmed. People dim our art because it’s not the typical or standard that fits into their guidelines.

In your opinion, what’s the future for pride?
The future of pride is a little cloudy in a sense. You have people who are trying to set a positive image for the community, and you have other individuals who are just corrupting the community by attacking within. I feel if the LGBTQ community came to terms with some things like health and viewpoints, we would be a stronger community instead of a conflicted one.

In your opinion, what’s the future for male models of the LGBTQ community?
For male models, I think the future is quite bright. People are falling in love with the “Open” male. While there are many, who aren’t vibing with this new trend of men. It’s here, and it’s not going anywhere. Especially when you have men like myself trying our hardest to carve a path. I’ve had to break through many walls to become the model I am today. I am glad to have been given that honor to give others motivation.

What Is Royal Cromwell’s ultimate goal? What’s the message you want to display to the World?
My overall goal is to showcase to the world that men are just that, men. We are all created differently. I live in my truth, and that makes me an honest man. Not every guy wants to be hyper-masculine. Not every guy who is feminine is LGBTQ. Men like what they like. Everything I do, I do with a positive mind. I never want to spread negative energy, and that’s the message I want to convey to the world. That a man can be colorful, creative, and spread positive messages just like hyper-masculine men can. You have to ask yourself, do we need more confined men or more honest men?