Hayley Williams, the lead singer of Paramore, recently expressed her concerns about Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his anti-LGBTQ+ policies during a performance in New Jersey. DeSantis, who announced his bid for the presidency, has enacted several discriminatory laws targeting the LGBTQ+ community, sparking criticism from activists and now celebrities like Williams. Known for her support of queer individuals and her opposition to homophobia, Williams used her platform to denounce DeSantis and urge her audience to reconsider their support for him.
DeSantis’ Anti-LGBTQ+ Stance
Since taking office in 2019, Ron DeSantis, a Republican, has utilized his position to implement a series of anti-LGBTQ+ laws in Florida. These include the Don’t Say Gay bill, which restricts discussions about LGBTQ+ topics in schools, and the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, preventing trans girls from participating in sports aligning with their gender identity. Additionally, the Stop Woke Act restricts the way schools and workplaces can address homophobia and other forms of oppression. These policies have drawn widespread criticism for their discriminatory nature and infringement on the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Hayley Williams Takes a Stand
During her performance at the Adjacent Music Festival in Atlantic City, Williams made her thoughts on DeSantis and his policies clear. Addressing the crowd, she boldly stated, “If you vote for Ron DeSantis, you’re f*g dead to me.” Her unequivocal condemnation of the Florida governor elicited a cheer from the audience and underscored her commitment to using her platform to advocate for equality.
👀 Hayley Williams of @paramore: “I’ll be happy to tell you I’m very fucking comfortable talking politics — and if you vote for Ron Desantis you’re fucking dead to me.” pic.twitter.com/LozN7GkZbA
— The Tennessee Holler (@TheTNHoller) May 29, 2023
Consistent Support for the LGBTQ+ Community
Williams has been a long-time ally of the LGBTQ+ community, consistently using her platform to stand up against homophobia and bigoted political policies. Earlier this year, she participated in the “Love Rising” benefit concert in Nashville, alongside other artists, to raise funds for queer not-for-profit organizations in response to anti-drag legislation in Tennessee. Williams has expressed her frustration with those who seek to limit the rights of others and has expressed gratitude for the support of her queer fans.
Celebrating Queer Influence in Music
In addition to her activism, Williams has recognized and celebrated the impact of queer individuals on the music scene. She acknowledged how young queer people have shifted the pop punk genre and expressed gratitude for their creativity, bravery, and tenacity. Through her words and actions, Williams has demonstrated her appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community and the contributions they have made to the music industry.
