As you may recall, recently, Bruce Springsteen canceled his North Carolina show in protest of the state's House Bill 2, which would require people to use the bathroom of the gender that they were assigned at birth. Meanwhile, Against Me! stated that they would maintain their North Carolina performance in protest of "House Bill 2". Well, it looks like Pearl Jam is following Bruce's philosophy and are also canceling their upcoming April 20 show in the state. You can see their statement below.
Pearl Jam Statement
"It is with deep consideration and much regret that we must cancel the Raleigh show in North Carolina on April 20th.
This will be upsetting to those who have tickets and you can be assured that we are equally frustrated by the situation.
The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens. The practical implications are expansive and its negative impact upon basic human rights is profound. We want America to be a place where no one can be turned away from a business because of who they love or fired from their job for who they are.
It is for this reason that we must take a stand against prejudice, along with other artists and businesses, and join those in North Carolina who are working to oppose HB2 and repair what is currently unacceptable.
We have communicated with local groups and will be providing them with funds to help facilitate progress on this issue.
In the meantime we will be watching with hope and waiting in line for a time when we can return.
Perhaps even celebrate.
With immense gratitude for your understanding,
Pearl Jam"