Signed into law on March 2, Tennessee Senate Bill 3 bans "topless dancers, go-go dancers, exotic dancers, strippers, male or female impersonators in presence of minors." Touted as a "child protection" bill, it is one of the dozens filed across multiple states. It is part of a wider trend of the hundreds of bills that target the LQBTQ+ community in the United States. Furthermore, SB3 shields itself from criticism by grouping drag performers in with adult entertainment acts. By putting "male and female impersonators" alongside "strippers", it sets the tone for the bill's perspective.
While the legislation was temporarily blocked by a federal judge, citing first amendment concerns, it looms large in Tennessee. Enter Lizzo, a loud and proud LGBTQ+ ally. Lizzo, since gaining her international stardom, has never been afraid to support the queer community. “It means so much because the LGBTQ community has embraced me as one of their own,” she told The Gay Times. Recently, the beloved singer took on the repressive legislation in her own way during a recent concert in the state.
Lizzo Welcomes Drag Queens On Stage
Lizzo is currently on the second leg of her Special 2our, which kicked off at the Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville. At the climax of the show, Lizzo invited multiple drag queens onto the stage to perform alongside her. It was a bold and brazen act of defiance against the legislation, which currently sits in legal limbo. The queens are all local to Tennessee, according to reports. The on-stage moment showcases the thriving scene present in the state despite the ban.
Posting to social media, Lizzo shared the moment with her fans. "THANK YOU TO THESE BEAUTIFUL DRAG QUEENS FOR SHOWING THEIR PRIDE IN TENNESSEE" she captioned the clip, along with a rainbow of hearts. The replies were filled with heartfelt messages from fans and queens alike, overwhelmed by Lizzo's actions. Lizzo is set to perform again in Tennessee on Monday, taking to the stage at the FedEx Forum in Memphis. Lizzo also has upcoming shows in Missouri and Louisiana. Missouri is attempting to pass a law that would "criminalize engaging, organizing, or authorizing the viewing of an adult cabaret performance on public property." Louisiana has not yet seen anti-drag legislation but it could occur in the conservative-leaning state.
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