Arts & Entertainment

Pearl Jam, Boston cancel North Carolina shows over anti-LGBT law

two more bands cancel scheduled concerts

Published

10 years ago

April 19, 2016

Mariah Cooper

(Screenshot via YouTube)

Pearl Jam and Boston are the latest musicians to cancel their North Carolina shows over the state’s HB2 law.

Pearl Jam was scheduled to perform in Raleigh on April 20. In a statement posted on the band’s website Pearl Jam called the law “a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens” and announced the cancellation of their show.

Pearl Jam continued in the statement that they plan to donate money to local organizations who oppose the law.

“In the meantime we will be watching with hope and waiting in line for a time when we can return. Perhaps even celebrate,” the statement reads.

On Monday, Boston guitarist Tom Scholz announced on the band’s Facebook page they will no longer be playing in Charlotte, Greensboro and Raleigh in early May because of the law.

“With thousands of fans in attendance at our shows, it is likely that some members of our audience and/or their loved ones are affected on a daily basis by this ugly expression of intolerance,” Scholz’s post reads.

“We look forward to the day that the state government of North Carolina will come to its senses and treat ALL individuals with equal freedom in their pursuit of happiness here in the United States,” Scholz concluded.

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Photos

PHOTOS: Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade

Annual LGBTQ celebration held in Dutch city during World Pride

Published

12 hours ago

August 1, 2026

Michael Key and Michael K. Lavers

A scene from the 2026 Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Editor’s note: International News Editor Michael K. Lavers and Photo Editor Michael Key are on assignment in the Netherlands through Aug. 10.

AMSTERDAM — The 2026 Amsterdam Pride Canal Parade was held on Saturday, Aug. 1.

(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key and Michael K. Lavers)

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Photos

PHOTOS: Lambda Legal in the Pines

Fundraiser held at ‘Normal Heart’ house

Published

2 days ago

July 31, 2026

Guest photographer

A scene from the 'Lambda Legal in the Pines' fundraiser on July 25. (Photo by Santiago Felipe)

The LGBTQ organization Lambda Legal held its annual “Lambda Legal in the Pines” fundraiser on Saturday, July 25. The event was held at a house on Fire Island featured in Ryan Murphy’s 2014 HBO film, “The Normal Heart.”

Organizers say over $500,000 was raised to support Lambda Legal’s national litigation and advocacy work.

(Photos by Santiago Felipe)

Out & About

Come showcase your singing, poetry talent

Spark Social open mic night planned for Aug. 13

Published

2 days ago

July 31, 2026

Tinashe Chingarande

Spark Social will host “Open Mic Night” on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m. (Washington Blade file photo by Michael Key)

Spark Social will host “Open Mic Night” on Thursday, Aug. 13 at 8 p.m.

Get ready to share your talent or just kick back and enjoy some great performances. This event is a fun, laid-back vibe where everyone’s welcome to take the stage. Sign-ups are first-come, first-served, but you can also DM Spark Social on Instagram to reserve a performance spot. Whether you’re a singer, poet, or comedian, this is your chance to get on stage and share your art. More details are available on Eventbrite.