In a defiant act of solidarity, queer pop sensation Chappell Roan made waves at the Governors Ball Music Festival by publicly rejecting an invitation from the White House to perform at a Pride celebration. Dressed as the Statue of Liberty, Roan delivered a powerful message advocating for liberty, justice, and freedom for all oppressed people, drawing inspiration from the iconic poem engraved at the base of the monument.

Addressing the audience before her performance of “My Kink Is Karma,” Roan declared, “We want liberty, justice, and freedom for all. When you do that, that’s when I’ll come.” Her impassioned plea resonated with the crowd, eliciting cheers and applause in support of her bold stance.

Quoting lines from Emma Lazarus’s poem, Roan emphasized the significance of freedom in trans rights, women’s rights, and liberation for oppressed individuals in occupied territories. Her unwavering commitment to equality and justice captured the essence of Pride and underscored the importance of using one’s platform to advocate for marginalized communities.

Roan’s rejection of the White House invitation, shared on social media platform X, further solidified her reputation as a trailblazing artist unafraid to speak truth to power. Embracing her drag persona, Roan emerged onstage with Lady Liberty’s torch in one hand and a joint in the other, embodying the spirit of freedom and defiance.

For Roan, drag has been a transformative journey, allowing her to authentically connect with her queer identity. Through her artistry and activism, she continues to challenge societal norms and champion inclusivity, inspiring audiences to stand up for what they believe in and fight for a world where everyone can truly be free.