Kim Carnie, a Scottish singer-songwriter, has revealed that she kept a same-sex relationship secret for six years out of fear that it would cause upset. The Gaelic singer of the year, who has previously appeared on movie and computer game soundtracks, was able to come out with the full support of her family and friends, and is now using her experience to help shape a new international film – Kim Carnie Out Loud – which tells the stories of people in the LGBTQ+ community who have hidden their sexuality. The film aims to empower those who cannot be themselves because of societal fears and norms.
Carnie, who grew up in Oban before moving to Glasgow, is the lead singer in Scottish traditional music group Mànran and folk collective Staran. She was named the Gaelic singer of the year in the 2021 Scots Trad Music Awards and has been featured on soundtracks including Netflix’s Outlaw King and Black Mirror. Now 30 years old, she revealed that from the ages of 16 to 22, she and her partner kept their relationship a secret because they believed that friends and family would be lost if they found out.
The Highlands and Islands, where Carnie comes from, are known for being steeped in tradition and, unfortunately, often less accepting of the LGBTQ+ community in contrast to the city. This created internal homophobia in Carnie, which further enhanced her fear of rejection and made her feel that no one would accept her for who she is.
Eventually, Carnie opened up to her family and close friends. Her brother had come out earlier the same year, and to her surprise, no one batted an eyelid. Everyone was absolutely fine, and although there were a few tears, she felt relieved to get it off her chest. This experience inspired her to help others who are struggling with the same issue. Kim Carnie Out Loud was born, and it included around 40 individuals from different parts of the world, including the US and Europe. The film had its premiere in the UK at Glasgow’s GFT, which was followed by more screenings at Sae Change Festival in Tiree. It has already been screened at 18 international festivals, where it has picked up 26 awards.
The film aims to be uplifting, but it also conveys the daily struggles and dangers that many in the LGBTQ+ community continue to face today. Carnie acknowledged how privileged she was to grow up in a country where the law protects those who identify as LGBTQ+ and how her story may differ from others in different parts of the world. However, she believes that Kim Carnie Out Loud shows how powerful it can be when marginalized voices come together to tell their stories
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