Hayley Williams Calls Out Donald Trump at Paramore’s iHeartRadio Music Festival Set
Paramore’s lead vocalist Hayley Williams took a moment during the band’s set at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas to address the audience and encourage them to vote, warning about Project 2025 and condemning Donald Trump’s agenda.
The Performance
During Paramore’s performance of "Big Man, Little Integrity", Williams locked onto the camera livestreaming the concert on Hulu and spoke directly to the audience in attendance and those watching at home. She emphasized the importance of voting and defeating Trump’s agenda.
Condemning Project 2025
Williams stated that Project 2025 is Trump’s playbook for controlling and punishing women, poor people, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community. She urged fans to band together and confront Trump at the polls.
The Call to Action
Williams concluded by emphasizing the importance of voting, saying, "It is time for all Americans to band together and finally defeat the Trump agenda. And the only way to do that is by confronting him at the polls. Do you want to live in a dictatorship? Well, show up and vote."
Background
This isn’t the first time Williams has used her platform to condemn Republicans and their anti-LGBTQ+ policies. In June 2023, she told fans at a show in Washington, D.C. that if they vote for Ron DeSantis, "you’re fucking dead to me. Is that comfortable enough for anyone?"
Paramore’s Stance
Earlier this year, Paramore declined a Tennessee resolution honoring the band for their Grammy win after the state’s Republican-leaning House of Representatives rejected a similar resolution celebrating Allison Russell. Williams wrote on social media that the blatant racism of the state leadership is "embarrassing and cruel" and that she and the band will continue to encourage young people to show up to vote with equality in mind.
Context
The resolution in question was part of a series of measures introduced by House Republicans to honor various state residents, including musicians, athletes, and business leaders. However, the measure recognizing Russell, a musician who is openly LGBTQ+, was blocked by the Republicans, while the measure honoring Paramore was passed. Williams has been vocal about her support for LGBTQ+ rights and has used her platform to speak out against anti-LGBTQ+ policies.
Conclusion
Hayley Williams’ statement at the iHeartRadio Music Festival is a powerful reminder of the importance of voting and holding elected officials accountable. As a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice, Williams has consistently used her platform to speak out against those who seek to harm or marginalize certain groups of people. Her message of unity and action is more important now than ever.
FAQs
Q: What is Project 2025?
A: Project 2025 is a playbook written by Donald Trump outlining a plan to control and punish certain groups of people, including women, poor people, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Q: What did Hayley Williams say about the Tennessee resolution?
A: Williams declined the Tennessee resolution honoring Paramore’s Grammy win and spoke out against the blatant racism of the state’s Republican leadership, saying it is "embarrassing and cruel".
Q: Has Hayley Williams spoken out against Republicans before?
A: Yes, Williams has been vocal about her opposition to Republican policies and has used her platform to speak out against anti-LGBTQ+ laws and politicians.
Q: What is Paramore’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights?
A: Paramore has been vocal about their support for LGBTQ+ rights and has used their platform to speak out against anti-LGBTQ+ policies and discrimination.
Q: Why is voting important?
A: Voting is important because it allows citizens to hold elected officials accountable and shape the direction of their communities and country. By voting, individuals can effect change and promote equality, justice, and fairness for all.