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Demi Lovato Takes Aim at HB 2, Supports Trans Rights at Billboard Awards
Demi Lovato Takes Aim at HB 2, Supports Trans Rights at Billboard Awards
Lovato sang her pop hit, "Cool For The Summer," while wearing a T-shirt that shows support for the transgender community.Â
Pop star Demi Lovato showed her support for transgender people at the Billboard Music Awards in Nevada on Sunday, wearing a sparkling shirt with a gender neutral bathroom logo emblazoned on it.
The shirt took aim at House Bill 2, an anti-LGBT law passed in North Carolina that prevents transgender people from using public restrooms and locker rooms that correspond with their gender identity. The law, introduced and signed into law in less than 12 hours on March 23, also rescinds all existing LGBT-inclusive nondiscrimination ordinances, prohibits new ones, and bars residents from suing for discrimination in state court. Lovato wore the black mesh top during a performance of her hit, "Cool For The Summer," a jam that is interpreted by many as a song about bisexuality.
"Demi Lovato continues to be a fearless ally for LGBT equality and acceptance," GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis said in a press release following Lovato's performance. "By wearing her support for the transgender community, Lovato is raising critical visibility for vulnerable LGBT North Carolinians and sending an invaluable message of support to transgender people everywhere."
Ellis added that a replica of the T-shirt would be sold during Lovato and Jonas' tour with proceeds donated to Equality NC, a state organization that is currently part of a lawsuit challenging HB 2, and Time Out Youth, a Charlotte-based community center that provides support and services for LGBT youth.
This isn't the first time Lovato has stood up for LGBT rights. She and her current tour mate, Nick Jonas, have taken a stand against HB2 by canceling performances in Raleigh and Charlotte to send a message to lawmakers. "We know the cancelation of these shows is disappointing to our fans, but we trust that you will stand united with us against this hateful law. #RepealHB2" they said in a message to fans, after cancelling both shows in April.
The law remains in effect, though it is being challenged by the United States Department of Justice.
Watch Lovato take the stage at 2016 Billboard Music Awards below.
