Singer Chappell Roan, whose real name is Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, declined an invitation to perform at a White House Pride event, stating that the nation does not honor “liberty and justice for all.” This statement was made during her performance at New York’s Governors Ball festival on Sunday, where she appeared in green paint and a wig to emulate the Statue of Liberty. Roan’s rejection of the invitation has sparked significant discussion.
“In response to the White House, who asked me to perform for Pride: we want liberty, justice, and freedom for all. When you do that, that’s when I’ll come,” Roan told the audience before singing her song, “My Kink is Karma” . She further elaborated on her stance by quoting the poem inscribed on the Statue of Liberty, emphasizing the importance of freedom for all, including trans rights and women’s rights, and notably for people in oppressed territories.
Roan’s emotional appeal resonated with the crowd, garnering enthusiastic cheers. However, her decision has been met with mixed reactions online. Supporters praised her for taking a stand, with one user on X saying, “Oh I f**king love Chappell Roan,” and another calling her decision “iconic.” On the other hand, critics labeled her actions as “ignorant” and “performative.”
Raised in a Christian home in Missouri, Roan has been vocal about her support for the LGBTQ community, telling Variety last year, “I love the queer community” . Despite this, she felt that the current administration is not doing enough to advance LGBTQ rights, leading to her refusal to perform at the White House event.
While some see her move as a bid for relevance among social justice supporters, it highlights ongoing tensions and differing views within the LGBTQ community regarding the government’s efforts on equality and rights. Roan’s stance, whether seen as brave or misguided, has certainly sparked debate and brought her a new level of attention in the process.
