In a captivating display of advocacy and support, renowned pop artist Lizzo has once again demonstrated her unwavering commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. Addressing Nebraska’s controversial legislation that threatens transgender rights and reproductive healthcare, the pop icon delivered a moving speech during her recent performance. Lizzo’s profound words echoed throughout the CHI Health Center in Omaha, leaving a lasting impact on her adoring fans.
Lizzo’s dedication to championing trans rights and the broader LGBTQ+ cause is well-known. During her Tennessee show in April, which formed part of her highly acclaimed “Special” album tour, the artist fearlessly defied the state’s restrictive drag ban. Despite fervent pleas from her fans to cancel the event, Lizzo took to the stage in an act of joyful resistance, accompanied by a dazzling ensemble of RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni and local drag queens.
Notably, Lizzo’s advocacy extends beyond her performances. At the People’s Choice Awards last year, she graciously accepted two awards while delivering an inspiring speech that acknowledged the contributions of women’s rights activists, including a transgender woman. This profound gesture resonated deeply within the LGBTQ+ community, which wholeheartedly embraced Lizzo’s empowering message of self-love and self-acceptance.
Lizzo’s latest endeavor to foster inclusivity involves her new Yitty shapewear collection. Embracing customers of all gender identities, the collection features tucking thongs and binder tops, catering to trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals. By incorporating these items, Lizzo aims to empower individuals to embrace their authentic selves.
However, it was on a momentous Friday evening in Nebraska that Lizzo truly unleashed her voice in defense of life-saving trans and reproductive healthcare. Standing before an enthusiastic crowd, she vehemently denounced Nebraska’s LB574 bill, which effectively restricts gender-affirming care for transgender youth and includes a 10-week abortion ban. Despite valiant efforts by two Democrats, including Megan Hunt, a mother of a trans son, to filibuster the bill, LB574 passed on the same day.
With unwavering conviction, Lizzo used her platform to deliver an affirming speech, assuring her fans, “You are valid.” Expressing her deep concern for young people growing up in a world that fails to protect them, she became a safe space for her audience. Lizzo adamantly declared that no law or external force should define anyone’s identity, asserting that their inherent worth should be recognized and safeguarded.
Addressing the adults in the room, Lizzo extended her message of protection, acknowledging their inner child’s need for reassurance. Her speech reverberated beyond the concert hall, garnering widespread admiration on social media platforms. Nebraska State Senator John Fredrickson expressed gratitude to Lizzo for providing the state with much-needed support, while Senator Hunt commended the artist’s dedication to defending abortion and trans rights.
Lizzo’s impactful stance drew applause from journalist Erin Reed, the fiancée of censured Montana lawmaker Zooey Zephyr, who marveled at the artist’s courage in confronting LB574—an alarming gender-affirming care and abortion ban—in front of thousands of people.
As Lizzo’s world tour continues, captivating audiences around the globe until July 30, the artist remains an unwavering advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. With upcoming stops in the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Poland, Sweden, and Luxembourg, her empowering presence promises to inspire and uplift countless individuals across continents.