Madonna adds Tennessee tour date to protest “pathetic” anti-LGBTQ+ bills

Madonna has added a show in Nashville to her upcoming greatest hits tour to protest Tennessee’s “unfounded and pathetic” anti-LGBTQ+ laws.

The state recently became the first in the US to introduce legislation banning drag, with SB003 preventing such shows from taking place in public spaces and/or places where minors may be present.

Similar anti-drag bills have been introduced in at least 14 other states, including Arizona, Oklahoma and Kentucky.

In response to numerous anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced in Tennessee, Madonna will now visit the state on her Celebration Tour this December.

In a statement released on 27 March, the Holiday singer said that “the oppression of the LGBTQ+ is not only unacceptable and inhumane; it’s creating an unsafe environment”.

READ MORE: Drag is under attack – but these queens aren’t backing down anytime soon

“It makes America a dangerous place for our most vulnerable citizens, especially trans women of colour,” she continued. “Also, these so-called laws to protect our children are unfounded and pathetic.”

It was previously announced that RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Bob the Drag Queen will serve as the opening act throughout the tour, including the show at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville.

“Anyone with half a brain knows not to f*** with a drag queen,” Madonna said in her statement. “Bob and I will see you from the stage in Nashville where we will celebrate the beauty that is the queer community.”

READ MORE: Tennessee bans public drag shows and gender-affirming care for children

Presale tickets will go on sale on 28 March, with the general sale beginning on 31 March.

A portion of proceeds from the show will go to organisations fighting for trans rights.

Madonna also announced new US dates in Washington DC, Philadelphia, Palm Springs and Sacramento, as well as an additional show in Phoenix and third shows in San Francisco and Las Vegas, respectively.

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