Hayley Kiyoko Instructed She Couldn’t Function Drag Queens in Nashville

Based on a video she posted on Instagram, lesbian pop star Hayley Kiyoko was informed she couldn’t deliver drag queens on stage for her Nashville efficiency with out risking authorized motion. Tennessee just lately grew to become the primary state within the nation to pass a bill banning public drag performances.

In a tearful video recorded moments earlier than her efficiency, Kiyoko stated the next whereas carrying her DRAG IS NOT A CRIME t-shirt:

We’re in Nashville and I’m very upset. I imply, I used to be upset, however now that is prefer it’s simply unbelievable. I get prepared for my present tonight and was actually excited to deliver out some unimaginable drag performances, and there’s an undercover cop within the venue and apparently my present, as a result of it’s all ages, we are able to’t have drag performers at my present. So we’re making an attempt to determine if there’s a workaround or what the state of affairs is, however that is fucked up. That is so fucked. I’m so sorry to my group, and I’m simply devastated. I’m simply devastated. That is simply not proper, not okay. And my coronary heart simply goes out to everybody navigating this. It’s simply not okay. I really like you all. Hold being yourselves.

The submit additionally features a video from a drag present at PlayNashville, the place Kiyoko was introduced up on stage with drag performers the evening earlier than her personal efficiency, as she explains within the submit’s caption.

She additionally wrote: “When the queens arrived it was about 10 minutes earlier than the present. I used to be distraught and allow them to know what was communicated to us and our issues. They confirmed no concern and stated they wished to proceed with the present and are available out on stage. So that they did.”

The submit encompasses a video from the efficiency, by which Nashville queens LiberTea and Ivy St James seem.

Lizzo additionally just lately brought drag queens out on stage throughout a Nashville efficiency amid the state’s drag ban.

Kiyoko really stated precisely what this all seems like in as few phrases as doable: “That is so fucked.” 

Anti-LGBTQ payments have a significantly negative impact on the mental health of queer youth. Kiyoko has emphasised her dedication to offering secure areas at her reveals, and the truth that her live shows are all ages implies that LGBTQ youth ought to really feel welcomed and affirmed right here.

These transphobic and dangerous anti-drag laws efforts are underway in lots of different states throughout the nation, together with however not restricted to Alabama, Florida, Kentucky, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. Time Journal is tracking developments on these laws state-by-state, so you may observe the newest in your space and across the nation. Assist your native drag performers.

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