Rock Icons Protest North Carolina’s Controversial House Bill
By Jason Greenough | Arts & Entertainment Editor
Many people around the US are in an uproar over a decision made by the North Carolina House, HB2, known as the controversial “Bathroom Law”, including some of the biggest names in music history. This law, passed in March only one day after being brought to the attention of Governor Pat McCrory, prohibits anyone from entering a public restroom that is not designated for the gender stated on their birth certificate, and further strips local Government of their ability to enact anti-discrimination laws in these cases, and disables the ability for LGBT citizens to sue when their rights are infringed upon in the work place. As you could have guessed, this has proven to be exclusive of those in the LGBT community, specifically those who are Transgender.
Leading the way for cancelling highly-anticipated rock concerts in protest of the newly passed law is rock titan Bruce Springsteen. “The Boss” released this statement on his website following the announcement of the cancellation of his April 10th show in Greensboro, North Carolina:
“Right now, there are many groups, businesses, and individuals in North Carolina working to oppose and overcome these negative developments. Taking all of this into account, I feel that this is a time for me and the band to show solidarity for those freedom fighters. As a result, and with deepest apologies to our dedicated fans in Greensboro, we have canceled our show scheduled for Sunday, April 10th. Some things are more important than a rock show and this fight against prejudice and bigotry — which is happening as I write — is one of them. It is the strongest means I have for raising my voice in opposition to those who continue to push us backwards instead of forwards.”
Springsteen’s actions led a sort of domino effect for other all-star performers, like Pearl Jam, to follow suit in solidarity.
The Grunge Gods had this to say, as part of a statement to explain the cancellation of their 25th-anniversary tour stop in Raleigh, which was scheduled for April 20th:
“The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens. The practical implications are expansive and its negative impact upon basic human rights is profound…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 who are working to oppose HB2 and repair what is currently unacceptable.”
The protest didn’t stop there, with other performers like classic rock-lifers Boston, and ex-Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, to also cancel shows to show support for those being discriminated against in the Tar Heel State. In addition to these cancellations, some artists, like Mumford & Sons and Cyndi Lauper, are continuing on with their scheduled performances in North Carolina, but will be donating proceeds to the fight against HB2.
It’s been said, time and time again, that entertainers should not have a voice when it comes to social justice issues like the one in question. But when a discriminatory government blatantly disregards the collective voice of “average” citizens, who is left to stand and fight for those buried under the rubble of inequality?
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