In a bold and unexpected move, rising pop star Chappell Roan declined an invitation from the White House to perform at a Pride event. The singer, known for her vibrant performances and strong advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, made the announcement during her set at the Governors Ball Music Festival in New York City on Sunday.
Roan, who took the stage dressed as a glammed-up Statue of Liberty, used the moment to make a powerful statement. “This is a response to the White House, who asked me to perform for Pride,” she declared, looking directly into the cameras. “We want liberty, justice, and freedom for all. When you do that, that’s when I’ll come.”
Her performance was a spectacle, beginning with her emerging from a giant fake apple, torch in one hand and what appeared to be a joint in the other. The crowd was captivated as she dedicated her song “My Kink Is Karma” to the Biden administration, emphasizing her demand for true liberty and justice.
Roan’s costume was not just for show; it carried a significant message. She referenced the famous poem by Emma Lazarus inscribed on the Statue of Liberty, “Give me your tired, your poor; your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” She passionately linked this to the fight for trans rights, women’s rights, and the rights of all oppressed people, particularly those in occupied territories.
The singer’s emotional delivery resonated with the audience, drawing cheers and applause. Her performance also included the debut of her new track “Subway” and fan favorites like “Hot to Go,” “Femininomenon,” and “Naked in Manhattan.”
Roan, born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, has been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. She often incorporates drag elements into her performances and invites drag queens to open her shows. Her commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for her fans is evident in her actions and words.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Roan explained her efforts to transform venues into welcoming environments for the queer community. “The Wiltern… It doesn’t feel like a gay club, you know what I mean? It’s proper. It’s very fancy,” she said of the L.A. theater. “That’s why I did so much work to make sure that right as you walk in, you’re immediately in a different world.”
Roan’s decision to decline the White House invitation comes at a time when President Joe Biden’s popularity among young voters is waning. Many young Americans, who tend to lean progressive, have expressed dissatisfaction with Biden’s stance on various issues, including the Israel-Hamas conflict, climate change, and the economy.
While Roan did not specify which issue prompted her to decline the invitation, her comments about freedom for all oppressed people suggest a broader critique of current policies. The Israel-Hamas conflict, in particular, has been a contentious topic among young voters, with many criticizing Biden’s support for Israel.
Roan’s performance and her decision to turn down the White House invitation quickly went viral on social media. A video of her comments was posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, and garnered significant attention. The reactions were mixed, with some praising her for taking a stand and others questioning her decision.
Nina Turner, a progressive commentator and former Ohio state senator, tweeted, “Good for her. This is what solidarity looks like. This is what allyship looks like.” Meanwhile, others pointed out the potential consequences of not supporting Biden, given the alternative of a Trump presidency.
Despite the mixed reactions, Roan’s commitment to her principles and her community remains unwavering. She has been embraced by the queer community, and her performances are known for their vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. Her song “Good Luck, Babe!” has become an anthem, and her debut album “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” has solidified her status as a new queer icon.
As Roan continues to rise in the music industry, her actions and words will undoubtedly inspire many. Her decision to decline the White House invitation is a testament to her dedication to advocating for true liberty and justice for all.
