Pop singer Hayley Kiyoko, also known fondly by her fans as “Lesbian Jesus,” documented her “emotional rollercoaster” of an experience in Nashville, Tenn., where she was recently set to play at Marathon Music Works, via Instagram.
In a lengthy caption and in videos, the “Chance” singer explained that she was threatened by police to not have drag queens perform during her show.
She wrote in her caption that during her day off on tour, she attended a Nashville drag show and was brought on stage, and decided to return the favor by bringing some of the queens out during her own show.
“At soundcheck the day of, I was advised by local law enforcement that having a drag performance at my all ages show could result in legal action. They warned us to not bring any drag performers on stage,” she shared in her caption.
She added that she was “shattered.”
According to NPR, the bill passed in Tennessee says that “adult cabaret” performances are restricted in public or in the presence of children.
Violating the drag ban can allegedly result in misdemeanor charges punishable by a fine of up to $2,500 and/or up to a year in jail.
ACLU of Tennessee’s Henry Seaton told NPR that the bill is “subtle and sinister.”
READ MORE: B-52s Denounce Anti-Drag Bills After Tennessee Enacts First Such Law
The videos Kiyoko posted were taken “moments” before her show and portrayed the pop star reacting “in real time” to the debacle.
“I’m very upset. This is, like, it’s just unbelievable,” Kiyoko said in the first video. She then revealed that there was apparently an “undercover cop” at the venue.
Holding back tears, she continued, “This is f—ed up. This is so f—ed. I’m so sorry to my community, and I’m just devastated. This is not right.”
In her caption, she explained further, “I never want to put anyone in a position to be at risk or in danger in any way. But also where is the line of being silenced? How do we navigate these absurd threats and laws against our community?”
“I find pride in making sure my concerts are safe places for ALL. How can I do that if we aren’t allowed to be ourselves, especially at a predominantly queer concert?” she continued. “We deserve to have a safe space to be ourselves while we navigate the evil that is threatening our own existence.”
Ultimately, she revealed that the drag performers she invited, LiberTea and Ivy St. James, decided to go on stage anyway, noting they displayed “no fear.”
“You looked radiant and truly inspire me,” Kiyoko told the two drag queens in her post. “We will not be silenced.”
It’s unclear whether or not Kiyoko will face repercussions for the concert, but one thing is for sure: she has the support of many of her fellow artists, as well as her fans, backing her up.
“Love you legend,” the band MUNA commented.
“Love you !! You’re doing the right thing!!!!!!” the singer Violet Skies added.
Notable drag queen Shangela said, “It’s such a mess right now what they’re doing. Stay strong. We won’t give up.”
See Kiyoko’s Instagram post, below: