Another day, another boycott of North Carolina over the state’s highly controversial anti-LGBT bill.
Ringo Starr has axed his June 18 date at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre in protest of the Tar Heel State’s recent legislation impacting the rights of the trans community. The Beatles legend is not alone in steering clear of the state over the lack of anti-discrimination protection, with Bruce Springsteen, PayPal and Lionsgate also taking action in response to North Carolina’s “bathroom bill.”
The 75-year-old rock veteran apologized that he wouldn’t be able to perform for fans in the state, but stressed that it’s important to take a stand against bigotry. He also encouraged support for organizations battling against HB2.
“I’m sorry to disappoint my fans in the area, but we need to take a stand against this hatred. Spread peace and love,” said Starr in a statement. “How sad that they feel that this group of people cannot be defended.”
Starr punctuated his stance by quoting Canned Heat (“let’s work together”) and the wisdom of the Fab Four (“all you need is love”).
Elsewhere in North Carolina concert talk, noted LGBT advocate Cyndi Lauper will not be ditching her upcoming date, but she says she will be using the event as a tool in the fight to repeal HB2.
“I will be donating all of the profits from the show to Equality North Carolina’s efforts to repeal HB2 and I am proud of my manager and agent for joining me in this effort by donating their commissions from the show to this vital effort. I look forward to coming to North Carolina and standing up for equality and fairness. If we truly want an inclusive society, we all have to include ourselves in the effort to make that happen. This is the best way I know how to include myself and urge you to join me in the best way you know how.”
Considering the steady supply of boycotts, protests, and rumblings of more events backing away from the state, it’s hard to imagine the pushback against HB2 is going to wrap up in the immediate future. It seems governor Pat McCory’s attempt to “clarify” matters with an executive order doesn’t appear to have swayed the legislation’s opponents.
(Via Rolling Stone)
