Beyoncé condemns North Carolina anti-LGBT law, doesn’t cancel show

While Beyoncé didn’t go the route of cancelling her concert like other artists have done, she has condemned North Carolina’s new anti-LGBT law.

Since the bill was signed into law last month, a host of performers, including Nick Jonas, Demi Lovato, Bruce Springsteen, Bryan Adams and Pearl Jam, have called off their shows in the state in protest.

Beyoncé, however, went on to perform her concert in the state capital Raleigh on Tuesday night, as scheduled.

In a statement posted on her website, the singer instead chose to highlight Equality NC, one of the organisations working for LGBT right in North Carolina.

“As The Formation World Tour makes its stop in the Tar Heel state [North Carolina] in the midst of such a controversial time, we think it is important for us to bring attention to those who are committed to being good and carrying on the message of equality in this core of controversy,” said the star.

Beyoncé explained that Equality NC is “dedicated to securing equal rights and justice for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) North Carolinians.”

She added: “To accomplish these goals, Equality NC tirelessly lobbies the North Carolina General Assembly, executive branch, and local governments, broadcast LGBT news, stories and content, and mobilise our communities on issues that matter, including marriage equality, parental rights, inclusive anti-bullying policies, employment discrimination, hate violence, privacy rights, sexuality education, adoption, domestic partnerships, and HIV/AIDS.”

Beyoncé urged her fans to support the organisation “by donating, volunteering, becoming an ambassador, attending an event, or simply spreading the word!”

She also posted an image (see above) of herself wearing Equality NC’s t-shirt, which proclaims, “Y’all Means All”.

North Carolina’s controversial law removes municipal LGBT non-discrimination protections in the state and prevents similar protections from being passed by cities in the future.

It also forces transgender students in public schools and universities as well as people in state buildings to use restrooms and other facilities inconsistent with their gender identity.