Hayley Kiyoko Defied Tennessee Police Threats to Include Drag in Performance

Hayley Kiyoko didn’t let the threats from law enforcement stop her from bringing drag performers on stage with her during a concert in Tennessee this week.

The 32-year-old musician shared her story of how she was notified by local law enforcement that should she include the drag queens at any point in her show, it could result in legal action.

However, she did it anyway.

Keep reading to find out more…

Hayley chronicled the events of what happened this week ahead of her show to fans on Instagram.

“At soundcheck the day of, I was advised by local law enforcement that having a drag performance at my all ages show could result in legal action. They warned us to not bring any drag performers on stage,” she shared on the social media platform, along with a handful of videos from the night. “I was shattered as you can see in the videos I recorded reacting to the situation in real time before the show started.”

Hayley went on, writing that she never wanted “to put anyone in a position to be at risk or in danger in any way. But also where is the line of being silenced? How do we navigate these absurd threats and laws against our community? I find pride in making sure my concerts are safe places for ALL. How can I do that if we aren’t allowed to be ourselves, especially at a predominantly queer concert? We deserve to have a safe space to be ourselves while we navigate the evil that is threatening our own existence.”

“When the queens arrived it was about 10 minutes before the show. I was distraught and let them know what was communicated to us and our concerns,” she added. “They showed no fear and said they wanted to continue with the show and come out on stage. So they did.”

Hayley then shared a big thank you to the queens, “@theladylibertea and @jivy85 for joining us last night. You looked radiant and truly inspire me.”

“We will not be silenced. We will find ways to continue to be our authentic selves, no matter what. We will not give up,” she declared. “No matter how hard they make it. I love you all so much.”

Watch Hayley‘s full Instagram below:

Just last week, Lizzo was also encouraged to cancel her shows because of the state’s anti-drag ban.