Alexander Tamargo/Getty ImagesBruce Springsteen is the latest celebrity to speak out regarding new anti-LGBT legislation in multiple states.
The Grammy winner just revealed that he will no longer be playing in North Carolina this weekend, but he wants his fans to know exactly why.
The 66-year-old released the following statement just days ahead of his scheduled Greensboro show on Sunday at the Coliseum Complex.
"As you, my fans, know I'm scheduled to play in Greensboro, North Carolina this Sunday. As we also know, North Carolina has just passed HB2, which the media are referring to as the ‘bathroom' law. HB2—known officially as the Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act—dictates which bathrooms transgender people are permitted to use. Just as important, the law also attacks the rights of LGBT citizens to sue when their human rights are violated in the workplace. No other group of North Carolinians faces such a burden."
Springsteen continued, "it's an attempt by people who cannot stand the progress our country has made in recognizing the human rights of all of our citizens to overturn that progress. 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."
Finally, the singer wanted his to express his "deepest apologies" to his fans that were looking forward to seeing him perform live on Sunday.
"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."