Advocate editor defends the decision to feature controversial Perez Hilton on its cover

In a nearly three minute video, Advocate editor in chief Jon Barrett discussed and defended the magazine’s decision to feature the controversial celebrity blogger Perez Hilton on the cover. He’s gotten many letters, e-mails, and phone calls from readers.

“We thought readers would benefit from getting a closer look at who Perez Hilton really is,” he began.

“I agree with those of you who wrote in to say that there are many other important issues for the magazine to cover, from marriage equality to don’t ask, don’t tell, to employment and non discrimination. But there’s no denying that in between the punches and the epithets Perez Hilton is talking about these issues too. And while many of us might disagree with the points or eloquence of his arguments, millions of Americans are paying attention to Perez and that reason alone is enough reason to put him on our cover.”

Hilton would be controversial at any time but he has offended many in recent months with some of his actions including posting sexual photos of Dustin Lance Black on his site then calling Black Eyed Peas singer will.i.am. a “faggot” during an altercation at a music awards show that resulted in Perez being physically assaulted.

Said Barrett: [Author] “Benoit Denizet-Lewis’ expertise became even more important after Perez made the very controversial and many might say despicable decision to post photos of Dustin Lance Black on his blog but, we already sent the magazine to the printing press by the time we heard of the dust up between Perez and Will.I.Am. And as many of you know we covered that news as it unfolded on advocate.com. More importantly though Benoit Denizet-Lewis was able to go back to Perez and ask him about the scuffle and his inflammatory decision to use a gay slur. This is all available in an update on our cover story, right here on advocate.com.”

Barrett added that The Advocate’s mission is not only covering  “the people who speak out against us” but also “the people who speak out against us. We can’t be merely cheerleaders for the movement because that would require that we stand on the sidelines. Instead we want to be here with our readers in engaging and provoking conversations about how you and I are living our lives,”