Pop superstar Lizzo took a bold stand against Tennessee’s anti-drag law by including drag performers, including RuPaul’s Drag Race alums, in her recent performance in Knoxville. Despite calls to cancel her show, Lizzo instead chose to create a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community and showcase the talents of drag performers. In a glittering green sequin jumpsuit, Lizzo delivered a powerful speech to her audience, explaining her decision to come to Tennessee and create a space to celebrate drag entertainers, differences, and fat Black women.
The Tennessee anti-drag law, which would have come into effect on April 1, was blocked by federal judge Thomas Parker. The legislation, known as Senate Bill 3, aimed to update an existing state law to prevent “adult-oriented businesses” from operating within 1,000 feet of schools, public parks or places of worship, including “adult cabaret performances”. Those who breach the law face a misdemeanour for a first offence and up to six years in prison for subsequent offences, which would be labelled as felonies.
Lizzo’s defiance against the anti-drag law has been praised by fans on social media, with many thanking her for shedding light on the issue and creating a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community in Tennessee. The joyful fan responses have flooded social media, with one Instagram comment commending the drag queens for being “so strong and brave.” The restraining order on the anti-drag bill has been extended until May 26.
As Lizzo’s world tour continues, with more US stops and dates in the UK, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Sweden, and Luxembourg, her decision to stand up for drag rights in Tennessee has become a powerful moment of activism and inclusion. In the face of an oppressive law, Lizzo’s act of defiance has become a symbol of hope and a call to action for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies.