Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation Can't Drag Lizzo Down

Lizzo edit by Gladys Lopez

Lizzo has been causing commotion after she brought out 20 drag queens on stage during her show in Knoxville, TN, in what is being called  "a glittery protest against the state’s legislation designed to restrict drag performances in public." During the show, Lizzo spoke with the audience about the legislative attacks against drag performers. Lizzo told the crowd, "In light of recent and tragic events and current events, I was told by people on the internet, ‘Cancel your shows in Tennessee,’ ‘Don’t go to Tennessee. Their reason was valid, but why would I not come to the people who need to hear this message the most?" She added, "Why would I not create a safe space in Tennessee where we can celebrate drag entertainers and celebrate our differences?"

Lizzo's Speaking to Knoxville Crowd

Lizzo Brings Out Drag Queens in Knoxville

Lizzo's glittery protest was a direct retaliation against Governor Bill Lee's signing legislation that prohibits the performance of "adult cabaret" in public or in front of minors. Republican Governor Bill Lee approved the legislation in February, but a federal judge suspended it in April, shortly before it was to take effect. The decision came after a lawsuit was filed by a Memphis-based LGBTQ+ theater company, which argued that the statute would infringe on First Amendment rights. 

Her actions shouldn't come as a shock because, for years, Lizzo has been a vocal LGBTQ+ ally. In a previous interview, she said, "I’m here for the liberation of all people," and added, "We can march together and make this a party. That’s why I’ve always been so connected to the Queer community. Drag Queens were the first people who put my music on, and saw my music, and identified heavily with it in the beginning." 

Lizzo Posing With Drag Performers 

Since her show on April 21, 2023, Lizzo has dedicated three posts to her Knoxville performance. Lizzo is staying true to her words of fighting for the liberation of everyone. She's using her online presence and performances to defy what she views as tragic events and garner support for drag performers nationwide. 

Image Sources:

@lizzobeeating. 2023a. “THANK YOU TO THESE BEAUTIFUL DRAG QUEENS FOR SHOWING THEIR PRIDE IN TENNESSEE ♥️🧡💛💚💙💜🩵🤎.” https://www.instagram.com/p/CrU0CndvWV1/.

———. 2023b. “I WANNA TAKE THE TIME AND THANK EACH & EVERY ONE OF THESE INCREDIBLE ENTERTAINERS.” https://www.instagram.com/p/CrWC2dpsuGl/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link.

———. 2023c. “Knoxville You Have My Heart. Thank You for Creating a Safe Space with Me.” https://www.instagram.com/p/CrWHQziuqMc/.