Hayley Kiyoko, the 32-year-old pop star and LGBTQIA+ activist, recently faced threats of legal action after inviting drag queens to perform on stage with her in Nashville, Tennessee. Despite the potential consequences, Kiyoko refused to back down and vowed to not be silenced. This article will delve into the details of what happened and discuss the importance of standing up for LGBTQIA+ rights.
The Threat of Legal Action
During a day off in Nashville, Kiyoko and her team visited a local drag show where she was brought on stage. They planned to invite some of the drag performers to join her on stage the following day during her concert. However, at soundcheck on the day of the concert, local law enforcement advised Kiyoko that having a drag performance at an all-ages show could result in legal action.
Kiyoko shared her reaction to the situation on Instagram: "I was shattered as you can see in the videos I recorded reacting to the situation in real time before the show started. I never want to put anyone in a position to be at risk or in danger in any way. But also where is the line of being silenced? How do we navigate these absurd threats and laws against our community?"
Despite the warning, Kiyoko refused to let fear dictate her actions. She wanted her concerts to be safe places for all, especially for members of the queer community. The drag queens who were supposed to perform with her showed "no fear" and agreed to go ahead with the show.
The Anti-Drag Bill in Tennessee
The reason for the potential legal action against Kiyoko and her team was due to Tennessee's recently passed anti-drag bill. The bill prohibits adult cabaret from performing on public property and other places where minors could be present. It includes "male or female impersonators" under the banner of "adult cabaret." Violators could face a fine of up to $1,000 and up to two years in prison.
This bill is a direct attack on the LGBTQIA+ community and their right to express themselves through drag performances. It is part of a larger trend of anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation that is sweeping across the United States. It is important to note that bills like these do not just harm drag performers, but also harm the broader LGBTQIA+ community by creating a culture of fear and intolerance.
Standing Up for LGBTQIA+ Rights
Kiyoko and other performers like her are essential in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. By standing up to oppressive laws and societal pressures, they create safe spaces for queer individuals to express themselves and be who they truly are.
Just two weeks before Kiyoko's concert, megastar Lizzo brought out drag performers at her Tennessee concert in protest of the anti-LGBTQIA+ bill. Despite being advised by fans on social media to cancel her concerts in the state, Lizzo chose to show her solidarity with the drag community in a bold way. She asked why she should not come to the people who need to hear her message the most and created a safe space where they could celebrate drag entertainers and their differences.
Performers like Kiyoko and Lizzo understand the importance of using their platform to create positive change. They also understand the risks involved in doing so, but choose to take a stand regardless. By doing so, they inspire others to do the same and help to create a more inclusive and accepting society for all.
Conclusion
Hayley Kiyoko and Lizzo are just two of the many artists who are taking a stand against discriminatory laws and practices that target the LGBTQIA+ community. Despite the risks and threats, they are using their platform to create safe spaces for everyone to be their authentic selves.
As we continue to fight for equality and acceptance, it's important to remember that change starts with us. By supporting artists who stand for what is right, we can help make a difference in the world.
FAQs:
Q: What is the anti-drag bill in Tennessee?
A: The anti-drag bill in Tennessee prohibits adult cabaret from performing on public property and other places where minors could be present, and it includes “male or female impersonators” under the banner of “adult cabaret.” Violators would face a fine of up to $1,000, and up to two years in prison.
Q: How did Hayley Kiyoko respond to the legal threat?
A: Hayley Kiyoko vowed not to be silenced and went ahead with her plan to have drag performers on stage during her concert in Tennessee. She shared her experience on social media and expressed her determination to create safe spaces for all.
Q: What did Lizzo do to show solidarity with the drag community?
A: Lizzo brought out 19 drag queens, including 'RuPaul’s Drag Race' alums Aquaria, Asia O’Hara, Kandy Muse, and Vanessa Vanji Matteo, to perform at her Tennessee concert. She also addressed the anti-LGBTQIA+ bill and created a safe space for everyone to celebrate their differences.
Q: How can we support artists who stand for equality and acceptance?
A: We can support artists who stand for what is right by attending their concerts, sharing their messages on social media, and buying their music. We can also educate ourselves about the issues facing the LGBTQIA+ community and take action to promote equality and acceptance.
Q: What can we do to create safe spaces for everyone?
A: We can create safe spaces for everyone by speaking out against discrimination and prejudice, listening to diverse perspectives, and celebrating our differences. We can also support organizations that work to promote equality and provide resources for those in need.