Slipknot makes statement about HB2
by Sarah Boone
Journalism Intern
August 1, 2016, the day before Slipknot’s concert in Charlotte, North Carolina at the PNC Music Pavilion, the nu metal band made a statement regarding the state’s HB2 “bathroom bill.”
HB2, or House Bill 2, is a law that prevents local governments from setting and implementing anti-discrimination and employment policies. This includes the issue that, most famously, transgender people are not able to use the restroom that coordinates with their gender identity.
"When we started this tour, we had reservations about playing in North Carolina because of a law recently passed there called HB2," the band explained. "The law halts the rights of LGBTQ people, doesn’t allow for cities to pass a living wage for the working class. We believe that regardless of who you are, or what you believe in this country – and in our own metal community – that everyone should be given access to equal opportunities they need to succeed. This law flies in the face of those values."
Many touring musicians, and even the 2017 NBA All-Star Game, have cancelled their dates in North Carolina to boycott the entire state because of HB2. Slipknot felt they would make a bigger statement by continuing to play in N.C.
"We believe that regardless of who you are, or who you love, you shouldn't have to face hatred at home or in your community. Our fans in North Carolina deserve better, so we decided not to cancel," the band added. "We don't care where you pee – just please flush. It's pretty simple, really."
To help convince the state to repeal HB2, Slipknot announced that they've partnered with LGBTQ advocacy group Equality NC, for the Charlotte show, to encourage audience members to help repeal the law and help fans register to vote.
"We're coming to North Carolina to show our fans that they can make the difference needed to repeal this law and return their state to a place that welcomes everyone and values differences," the band said.
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The Gayly - 8/2/2016 @ 2:25 p.m. CDT