During the same week when North Carolina residents passed a constitutional amendment that defines marriage exclusively between a man and a woman, it looks like Queen Latifah has decided to come out of the closet.

Rumors about the veteran star's sexual preference have been circulating for years, but now it appears she's chosen to end the speculation... by headlining this year's Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride Festival.

It takes place on May 19/20.

Said Pat Crosby, co-president of the event:

“From hip to R&B, pop to standards, Queen Latifah is the voice of our generation, and her concert here will be phenomenal. For her to make her worldwide Pride debut here in Long Beach is a tremendous testament to the popularity of our celebration and to the strength of our community.”