Pearl Jam cancels North Carolina show to protest anti-LGBT law

Pearl Jam has canceled its Wednesday concert in Raleigh, North Carolina to protest HB2, the state’s recently passed law that specifies which bathrooms transgender people are allowed to use and has been regarded as anti-LGBT.

“The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens,” the band said in a statement posted to Twitter. “The practical implications are expansive and its negative impact upon basic human rights is profound. We want America to be a place where no one can be turned away from a business because of who they love or fired from their job for who they are.

“It is for this reason that we must take a stand against prejudice, along with other artists and businesses, and join those in North Carolina who are working to oppose HB2 and repair what is currently unacceptable.”

The Seattle rockers are the latest act to call off dates in the Tar Heel State. Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, and Cirque du Soleil all canceled performances in the last few weeks. Some artists, like Gregg Allman and Jimmy Buffett, have condemned the law but kept scheduled gigs on the calendar. Cyndi Lauper promised over the weekend all the profits for her June show would go toward fighting HB2.

Refunds for Pearl Jam’s Wednesday’s show can be received from the point of purchase. Those who bought Ten Club tickets will have their purchase automatically refunded in full later this week.