Anita Bryant, the multi-Grammy nominated singer and prominent anti-LGBTQ+ activist, passed away at her home in Edmond, Oklahoma, on December 16, 2024. Born on March 25, 1940, in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, Bryant’s life was characterized by her dual roles as an accomplished performer and a controversial political figure. She leaves behind her four children, two stepdaughters, seven grandchildren, and their spouses.
Bryant rose to fame in the 1960s as a singer, known for her powerful voice and charm. At just 18 years old, she was crowned Miss Oklahoma, a title that helped launch her career. She gained national recognition by performing at various prestigious events, including singing at the White House during Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency and at both Republican and Democratic national conventions. Her commercial success included being a spokesperson for Florida Citrus, famously coining the phrase, “Breakfast without orange juice is like a day without sunshine.”
However, Bryant's legacy is also deeply intertwined with her political activism. In the 1970s, she became a central figure in the anti-LGBTQ+ movement through her leadership of the "Save Our Children" campaign. This initiative aimed to repeal a Dade County ordinance in Florida that prohibited discrimination based on sexual orientation. Bryant's involvement ignited widespread backlash from LGBTQ+ activists, leading to boycotts of Florida orange juice, significantly impacting her career. She later stated that she lost approximately half-a-million dollars in concert bookings due to the controversy.
Despite the backlash, Bryant remained steadfast in her beliefs. In a 1978 interview with Playboy, she expressed her motivations for entering the political arena, saying, “I got involved only because they were asking for special privileges that violated the state law of Florida, not to mention God’s law.” Her comments showcased the conviction with which she approached her advocacy.
Bryant's family released a statement following her death, reflecting on her enduring faith and influence. They stated, “May Anita’s memory and her faith in eternal life through Christ comfort all who embraced her.” This sentiment encapsulates the complexity of Bryant's life—celebrated by some for her musical talent and condemned by others for her political stance.