Jackie Evancho Receives Backlash for Performing at Donald Trump’s Inauguration Ceremony

Former America’s Got Talent star Jackie Evancho is facing online backlash following the announcement that she’ll be performing at President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration ceremony on Jan. 20.

Evancho is the first musical artist confirmed to perform at the ceremony, with Boris Epshteyn, the inaugural committee’s director of communications, confirming in a statement, “We’re delighted to have Jackie Evancho performing the national anthem at the 58th presidential inaugural ceremony.” He added, “As the youngest solo artist to ever go platinum, she is a true role model and inspiration for people young and old in our country and around the globe. Jackie represents the best and the brightest of America.”

“I felt really honored to be able to sing for the office,” she said on the Today show. “It’s a great honor for me.”

However, the announcement isn’t without controversy. Ahead of her performance, the 16-year-old singer is being targeted online about her transgender sister. She told People magazine, “My family is kind of a big target. I have a transgender sister and so a lot of hate goes towards us.”

Evancho’s transgender sister Juliet is currently suing a Pennsylvania school district over its discriminatory bathroom policy. Jackie Evancho immediately became the target of anti-Trump supporters expressing their disbelief, with many commenting on the irony of her performing for an administration with historically anti-LGBT beliefs when her own sister is transgender. For more, check out the video above.

Another performer with a connection to President-elect Donald Trump is Kanye West. Find out about his complicated history with presidents:

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