Beyoncé did not cancel her tour stop in North Carolina over the state’s recent anti-LGBT bill, but she did speak out against it.
The state has faced nationwide backlash after Governor Pat McCrory signed a sweeping bill back in March that prohibits cities from passing non-discriminations laws to protect queer people and forces transgender people to use public restrooms that correspond with the gender they were assigned at birth, rather than the gender with which they currently identify.
While other artists — including Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas, Bruce Springsteen and Pearl Jam — have cancelled shows over the discriminatory law, Beyoncé’s Formation World Tour headed to Raleigh, North Carolina, for a stop at Carter–Finley Stadium Tuesday night. But the singer made sure to voice her support for equality on her website.
“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,” read the statement posted on May 3.
Beyoncé did not cancel her tour stop in North Carolina over the state’s recent anti-LGBT bill, but she did speak out against it.
“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.”
Chris Sgro, executive director of the group, told the Charlotte Observer that they are “grateful and extremely humbled by the outpouring of support against this deeply discriminatory law. Beyoncé’s support is another voice in the chorus for equality … Beyoncé bringing attention to the fight for equality is a good step in that direction.”
The Queen gets it.