Pearl Jam have cancelled their North Carolina show over the American state’s anti-LGBT "bathroom law".
The ‘Alive’ hitmakers made the decision not to play their planned concert at the PNC Arena in Raleigh on Wednesday (20.04.16) in protest over the Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act, which decides which toilet a transgender person can use.
A handwritten statement posted to the band’s Facebook page yesterday (18.04.16), read: "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. (sic)"
The US rock band believe it is a "despicable piece of legislation" and explained they had no choice but to pull out to "make a stand against prejudice".
The statement continued: "The HB2 law that has recently been 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 profound. We want America to be a place where no one can can be turned away from a business because of who they love or fried from their job for who they are.
"It is for this reason that we must take a stand against prejudice (sic)"
Pearl Jam also said they are working with local groups to work on the issue.
The band – comprised of Eddie Vedder, Jeff Ament, Matt Cameron, Stone Gossard and Mike McCready – added: "We have communicated with local groups and will be providing them funds to help facilitate progress on this issue.
In the meantime we will be waiting with hope and waiting in line for a time when we can return – perhaps even celebrate (sic)"
Pearl Jam follow in the footsteps of Bruce Springsteen, Boston, Ani DiFranco, the Cirque do Soleil and Ringo Starr, who also opted out of playing concerts in the state to make a stand against the newly-instated law.
Pearl Jam pull North Carolina show over ‘bathroom law’
