Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Julien Baker took a stand in opposition to anti-LBGTQ+ laws in Tennessee throughout their Nashville present on June 25. Wearing full drag, the Boygenius members, who’re all brazenly queer, gave the metaphorical center finger to Republican Governor Invoice Lee.
Decked out in glitter, rhinestones, and hairspray for Pleasure Month, the band members launched their drag alter egos: Queef City (Bridgers), Shanita Tums (Baker), and Lucille Balls (Dacus). Even the cameraman did their half, carrying a gown whereas recording the efficiency from the entrance row. The present comes only a few months after Tennessee grew to become the primary state to cross a ban on public drag reveals on March 2.
“I’ve numerous anger for the individuals who have made me really feel small.”
As a Tennessee native, Baker stepped in entrance of the mic to talk out in opposition to the state’s anti-trans legal guidelines and to share her private journey as a member of the queer neighborhood. “In the present day, I am so grateful for my life, not as a result of I get to face on stage with my greatest mates — and my man, James,” Baker stated, referring to the stagehand who introduced her a brand new guitar mid-sentence, “however as a result of I am content material with the person who I’m.” She continued, “I’ve numerous anger for the individuals who have made me really feel small and make me really feel erased. And I’ve discovered it is a actually highly effective and humiliating software for making these individuals f*ck off. I would love you to scream so loud that Governor Lee can hear you.”
Because the official state consultant, Lee has been a key proponent in passing laws that straight targets trans youth, drag performers, and the LGBTQ+ neighborhood at massive. In March, Lee additionally notably signed a invoice that banned gender-affirming healthcare for youth within the state. The group got here by way of on Baker’s request, screaming on the high of their lungs earlier than breaking right into a refrain of “F*ck Invoice Lee.”
A couple of months prior, Boygenius launched their debut studio album, “The Document,” on March 31. Forward, see clips from the band’s Nashville efficiency, and take a more in-depth have a look at their spectacular drag outfits.
