Everybody thinks that equality comes from identifying people, and that's not where equality comes from.

In this quote, Matt Bomer challenges the common belief that equality is achieved simply through labeling or identifying people by certain characteristics, such as gender, race, or sexual orientation. He argues that true equality is not about focusing on these identifiers, but rather about treating people with the same respect, dignity, and rights regardless of their labels. Bomer’s perspective encourages a deeper, more inclusive approach to equality, one that goes beyond categorizing individuals based on superficial traits.

The origin of this quote comes from Bomer’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, as well as his personal experiences as a gay man in both the entertainment industry and society at large. As an actor and activist, Bomer has been outspoken about the importance of equality not just in terms of visibility but also in terms of opportunity and treatment. His statement reflects his belief that equality should be rooted in actions, not just in the identification of different groups, and that recognizing a person’s full humanity is key to achieving social justice.

Bomer’s critique addresses the limitations of identity politics, which often focus on categorizing people into groups in an attempt to ensure fairness. While representation and visibility are important, he suggests that true equality requires a shift in how we treat one another, beyond simply acknowledging group affiliations. By pointing out that equality doesn’t come from just identifying people, Bomer advocates for a deeper understanding of fairness and justice that moves beyond labels and emphasizes human connection and shared rights.

Ultimately, Bomer’s quote is a call to rethink how we approach equality. It challenges us to move beyond divisions and focus on creating a society where all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds or identities, are treated with equal value and respect. Bomer’s perspective encourages a more holistic view of equality, one that involves seeing people for who they truly are, not just the categories they belong to.