Hozier delivered a powerful speech supporting the LGBTQ+ community amid the rise of anti-drag legislation.
On 2 March, Tennessee became the first state in the United States to ban public drag shows.
While the word “drag” was not explicitly listed in the legislation, Senate Bill 3 prevents any “adult cabaret performances” – which are defined as “male or female impersonators who provide entertainment that appeals to a prurient interest” – from operating within 1000 feet of schools, public parks or places of worship.
Since the bill was signed into law by the state’s Republican governor Bill Lee, LGBTQ+ activists and celebrities have used their platforms to speak out against the archaic hate – including music superstar Hozier.
During his recent appearance at the Love Rising benefit concert – which raised funds for Tennessee-based LGBTQ+ organisations – the All Things End singer praised the queer community for being “revolutionary.”
“I’m from Ireland, and the Irish revolutionary James Connolly once said that no revolutionary movement is complete without its poetical expression,” he told the crowd at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
“And I feel, just for me, there’s so many elements of queer culture that are at times no less than revolutionary.
“In a time of political repression and suppression and fearmongering – artificially generated fearmongering and scapegoating – I feel that telling the truth of who you are, and being who you are, and standing up for that, and expressing that is a very revolutionary act. It’s an honour to be here.”
Hozier’s speech tonight at the Love Rising benefit concert pic.twitter.com/cne85AvVA3
— daily hozier pics & vids (@dailyhozierpics) March 21, 2023
In response to Hozier’s impactful statement, fans took to social media to praise the beloved music talent for his continued allyship.
One person tweeted: “Thank you @Hozier for standing up for the LGBTI+ community in Tennessee, which has seen some horrid legislation of late.”
Another fan also wrote: “This made me tear up so badly Jesus Christ.”
The Love Rising benefit concert isn’t the first time Hozier stood up for LGBTQ+ rights.
Back in June 2020, the Grammy-nominated talent showed support for the trans community after JK Rowling spewed hateful rhetoric on Twitter.
“Trans rights are human rights. I don’t know who might need to hear this today, but you are loved, you are seen, and you deserve to be happy and respected for who you and the God-given life you live. Solidarity, Love and Happy #PrideMonth,” he tweeted.
His rich music catalogue, including his hit single Take Me to Church, has also featured LGBTQ+ inclusive lyrics and themes.
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