Governor Bryant,
I am scheduled to perform in your great state this Saturday; however, given the very recent anti-LGBTQ attacks that your administration has leveled against some of your own citizens I very nearly cancelled my appearance. After discussion with various LGBTQ groups, however, I’ve decided to go forward with the show in order to say a few things to those who live in the Magnolia State — and I want to start off by addressing you directly.
As the very proud mother of a gay child I can’t imagine anything less Christian than using the law as a weapon against others. Because of my career as a performer and the privilege that has brought to our family, my son will be all right, but the pain you’re causing LGBTQ Mississippians is devastating, especially the transgender folks and LGBTQ people of color who will be most directly impacted by these attacks. Brave organizers like Kaylee Bradshaw — a black transgender Mississippian — and Brandiilyne Mangum-Dear — a lesbian pastor in Mississippi — are just two of the people who will be directly impacted by hateful bills like these. Their bravery in organizing against these attacks is stunning.
Nearly 30 years ago, I released a song titled “Heaven Is a Place on Earth.” I was proud of the message of that song then and I continue to be proud of it today. Unfortunately, Governor Bryant, you and those around you are making life hell on earth for many Mississippians.
Never Miss a Beat
Subscribe to our newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights.
So I’ll go forward with my show on Saturday and I’ll use it as an opportunity to speak the truth about the bravery of people like Kaylee and Brandiilyne and so many others across your state who are resilient and loving and brave. Finally, it is my call, as a mother, that you bring a little bit of heaven to Mississippi by repealing HB1523.
Belinda Carlisle
Performer Belinda Carlisle writing on her Facebook page to Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant about that state’s newly-passed law that further criminalizes LGBTQ residents of and visitors to the state. She will perform in Biloxi on Saturday night.
