Beyoncé Performs in North Carolina, Issues Statement Supporting Statewide LGBT Org
Artist Praises Equality North Carolina for ‘Doing the Good Work’ to Get HB2 Overturned
Unlike many other top artists who were scheduled to perform in North Carolina, Beyoncé chose to not boycott the state, but to use her platform to help and praise a local LGBT organization. The singer, songwriter, producer, and actress who has been nominated for more Grammy awards than anyone else in history, performed in Raleigh Tuesday night, and on her website posted a lengthy statement titled, “EQUALITY NC WORKS TO PROVE ‘Y’ALL MEANS ALL.'”
98 Degrees, Blue Man Group, Pearl Jam, Boston, Ringo Starr, Cirque du Soleil, and Bruce Springsteen, among many others, have all declined to perform in North Carolina, as a result of HB2, while some other artists have used their performances to denounce the anti-LGBT law.
“North Carolina has been drawing the attention of the masses for new legislation that blocks cities and local governments from passing anti-discrimination measures that could protect gay and transgender people,” Beyoncé’s statement begins.
Beyoncé wearing ‘Y’all Means All’ shirt in support of @equalitync. #HB2 #Equality pic.twitter.com/hzxoyXFh0J
— BEYONCÉ LEGION (@Bey_Legion) May 4, 2016
“As The Formation World Tour makes its stop in the Tar Heel state in the midst of such a controversial time, we think it is important for us to bring attention to those who are committed to being good and carrying on the message of equality in this core of controversy,” Beyoncé’s statement continues.
“Among the many organizations doing the good work to get this bill overturned, there is Equality NC, a local organization dedicated to securing equal rights and justice for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) North Carolinians.”Â
“To accomplish these goals, Equality NC tirelessly lobbies the North Carolina General Assembly, executive branch, and local governments, broadcast LGBT news, stories and content, and mobilize our communities on issues that matter, including marriage equality, parental rights, inclusive anti-bullying policies, employment discrimination, hate violence, privacy rights, sexuality education, adoption, domestic partnerships, and HIV/AIDS.”
“Learn more about Equality NC on their website, Facebook or Twitter and shop their merch here,” her statement concludes.
.@Beyonce just slayed #HB2. Are you listening, #ncga? #Beygood #WeAreNotThis #RepealHB2 https://t.co/1IfSo7NPC4 pic.twitter.com/d31YSfL5Tq
— Equality NC (@equalitync) May 4, 2016
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Image via FacebookÂ
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