Elliot Page Shares Heartfelt Advice for His Younger Self
Elliot Page, known for his groundbreaking roles in Juno and The Umbrella Academy, has once again moved fans with his heartfelt reflections on identity and self-acceptance. Speaking in a video shared by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the actor shared the advice he would offer to his younger self, leaving many deeply touched by his poignant words.
“You Know Who You Are”
Reflecting on his journey, Page said he would encourage his younger self to trust his inner truth and reject the external forces that created doubt and shame.
“My message to my younger self would be, just like, ‘You know who you are, and please embrace that,’” he began.
He elaborated on the challenges he faced growing up, explaining how societal pressures made him lose sight of himself.
“I understood my truth. I felt it very strongly, and it was all of these external forces and noises that pushed and pulled and made me sort of lose track of who I was,” he said.
Page emphasized the importance of recognizing that the discomfort and pain he felt were a reflection of societal prejudice rather than his own identity.
“To my younger self, I’d say that the discomfort and pain you’re feeling—that is not yours. That is theirs. And to just keep going on the journey of embracing who you truly are,” he advised.
Elliot Page shared the advice he'd give to his younger self (Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
A Journey Toward Self-Acceptance
Page’s journey has been one of immense personal and professional courage. In 2020, he came out as transgender, sharing his truth with the world and becoming a powerful advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Shortly afterward, he began his transition, a process he detailed in his memoir, Pageboy.
In the book, he candidly spoke about the shame and isolation he experienced growing up in a world that didn’t accept him for who he was.
“Shame had been drilled into my bones since I was my tiniest self, and I struggled to rid my body of that old toxic and erosive marrow,” Page wrote.
He also shared tender memories, like the first time he kissed a girl, which brought him a fleeting sense of belonging amidst his struggles.
The Impact of Page’s Words
Page’s advice to his younger self has resonated deeply with fans and followers, who praised his message of self-love and resilience.
“What a peaceful, loving response. Such a king and role model,” one commenter wrote.
Another added, “Thank you for living in your truth and liberating yourself. You know who you are more than anyone else in this world. Thank you for sharing your story—it could save a life.”
His words serve as a reminder to those struggling with their identity that their pain often stems from external societal pressures, not from within themselves.
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The Ongoing Fight for Acceptance
Despite progress in LGBTQ+ rights, many still face discrimination and stigma, making role models like Elliot Page essential. His advocacy work and openness about his struggles offer hope and inspiration to those navigating their own journeys.
In his ACLU video, Page highlighted the importance of embracing one’s truth, no matter the challenges. “That’s what’s going to lead you to happiness,” he concluded.
Support for Those in Need
For anyone affected by issues of identity or discrimination, organizations like the LGBT National Hotline offer confidential support. Contact them at 888-843-4564 for guidance and assistance.
Page’s story serves as a testament to the power of authenticity and the strength found in embracing one’s truth. As one fan aptly put it, “Elliot, thank you for sharing your story—it could save a life.”
Featured Image Credit: Kevin Winter/Getty Images
