Hayley Kiyoko Gives Powerful Performance With Drag Queens in Nashville Amid Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation
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Hayley Kiyoko has taken a stand against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Tennessee on her recent tour stop in Nashville on May 1. The "Girls Like Girls" singer — often referred to as "Lesbian Jesus" by her fans — is currently headlining her first tour in four years in support of her sophomore album, Panorama.
She took to Instagram to address concerns about the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers in Tennessee, as Senate Bill 3 went into effect on April 1. The law, which was signed by Republican Gov. Bill Lee on March 2, banned drag performances in public spaces and in the presence of anyone under 18 years old. This posed an issue for Hayley as she wanted to bring out local drag performers LiberTea and Ivy St James on stage at her all-ages Nashville show.
"At soundcheck the day of [the show], I was advised by local law enforcement that having a drag performance at my all ages show could result in legal action. They warned us to not bring any drag performers on stage. I was shattered as you can see in the videos I recorded reacting to the situation in real time before the show started," Hayley wrote in her caption.
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"I never want to put anyone in a position to be at risk or in danger in any way. But also where is the line of being silenced? How do we navigate these absurd threats and laws against our community?" the Lemonade Mouth alumna continued.
"I find pride in making sure my concerts are safe places for ALL. How can I do that if we aren’t allowed to be ourselves, especially at a predominantly queer concert? We deserve to have a safe space to be ourselves while we navigate the evil that is threatening our own existence," she wrote, referring to the anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that has been passed.
Hayley then revealed that ten minutes before her show, the queens arrived and wanted to continue with the performance despite the legal threats they'd potentially have to face. Per several Instagram posts, LiberTea and Ivy joined Hayley for a performance of her queer anthem, "For the Girls."
"We will not be silenced. We will find ways to continue to be our authentic selves, no matter what. We will not give up. No matter how hard they make it. I love you all so much," Hayley wrote, closing out her post about the situation.
Fans, friends, and allies also took to the comments section to show their support and solidarity.
RuPaul's Drag Race alum Shangela wrote, "It’s such a mess right now what they’re doing. Stay strong. We won’t give up." A fan expressed their gratitude for the powerful performance by saying, "I was there and immediately recognized one of the queens from [local club] Play! I was so overwhelmed and happy you brought them out. Thank you for not backing down. You are such an inspiration."
LiberTea and Ivy also thanked Hayley for having them be part of the historic moment. "The past two days have been so unexpected but truly the best ever. thank you for everything you’ve done & continue to do. love you so much! 🤍," LiberTea said while Ivy wrote, "Both nights were truly wonderful! Thank you for speaking up and using your platform to showcase that we will not be silenced! Love you!! 🥰🥰🥰."
As of May 3, there has been no word on whether Hayley or the drag performers have been faced with legal action in Tennessee, per the singer's Instagram caption.
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