Bruce Springsteen has cancelled an upcoming concert in North Carolina in light of the state’s recently passed law that many people believe discriminates against the LGBT community.
The Boss didn’t pull any punches in a statement Friday, saying the fight against “prejudice and bigotry” is more important than a rock concert.
“North Carolina has just passed HB2, which the media are referring to as the ‘bathroom’ law. HB2 — known officially as the Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act — dictates which bathrooms transgender people are permitted to use. Just as important, the law also attacks the rights of LGBT citizens to sue when their human rights are violated in the workplace.
WATCH: Supporters, protesters of bathroom bill hold rallies in North Carolina. Steve Crump reports.
“No other group of North Carolinians faces such a burden. To my mind, it’s an attempt by people who cannot stand the progress our country has made in recognizing the human rights of all of our citizens to overturn that progress.”
WATCH: Debate over controversial law heats up in North Carolina
Springsteen points out that many others are also objecting to the law, and he must “show solidarity for those freedom fighters.” While apologizing to his fans, Springsteen said he has cancelled Sunday’s concert in Greensboro.
Springsteen’s cancelled show is the latest in backlash from companies and individuals since North Carolina passed the law.
PayPal has cancelled expansion plans in the state, Lionsgate reportedly moved production of a new TV show to Vancouver from Charlotte, while Microsoft, IBM and Facebook are among dozens of companies that have spoken out against HB2.
READ MORE: Georgia Governor: We don’t need to discriminate to protect faith
This week, Mississippi passed a similar law.
“Some things are more important than a rock show and this fight against prejudice and bigotry — which is happening as I write — is one of them,” Springsteen’s statement says.
“It is the strongest means I have for raising my voice in opposition to those who continue to push us backwards instead of forwards.”
Tickets for Sunday’s cancelled show can be refunded at point of purchase.