Apr 18, 2016
Pearl Jam have become the latest musicians to protest against a law passed in North Carolina which prohibits transgender people from using public facilities, such as bathrooms, that do not match their original biological sex.
The band were scheduled to appear in North Carolina on the 20th April but decided instead to protest against the highly controversial piece of legislation known as the Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act (HB2). They posted a handwritten statement on Twitter which explained their thoughts and reasons behind cancelling the gig.
https://twitter.com/PearlJam/status/722175900716957696
“The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens. It is for this reason that we must take a stand against prejudice, along with other artists and businesses, and join those in North Carolina to oppose HB2 and repair what is currently unacceptable,” they wrote.
As well as cancelling their concert they have also sought support for the cause from local bands in the area. The statement also revealed the band had reached out to them and would be, “providing them with funds to help facilitate progress on the issue.”
Pearl Jam’s move comes after Bruce Springsteen, Bryan Adams and Ringo Starr also scrapped concerts in light of the law being passed. “It's with deep consideration & much regret that we must cancel the Raleigh, NC show,” Pearl Jam announced alongside their written statement. While Mumford & Sons and Against Me! recently performed in North Carolina but donated proceeds from their shows to the LGBT cause.
Image: Consequence of Sound