Beyoncé has spoken out in a big way against North Carolina's House Bill 2, formally known as the Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act, which prohibits transgender people from using bathrooms and locker rooms that do not match their biological sex as listed on their birth certificate.
Beyoncé is currently traveling on her Formation World Tour, and her most recent stop in Raleigh, N.C. inspired the singer to speak out on the topic. "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," Beyoncé wrote on her website.
"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," she continued, offering nod to a local organization working to secure equal rights for the LGBTQ community. "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."
In addition to its bathroom prohibition, the controversial bill also bans cities from raising their minimum wages, stops people from being able to sue for discrimination claims in state court, and forbids cities in North Carolina from setting their own anti-discrimination ordinances beyond those of the state.
She joins a growing list of artists who have performed in the state to raise awareness about the law, including Father John Misty, Against Me!, Cyndi Lauper, Duran Duran, and Mumford & Sons. Meanwhile, Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Pearl Jam, and tourmates Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas have all canceled concerts in protest of the bill.
Read Beyoncé's full statement here.
