Controversial Books to Be Distributed by Pink on Upcoming Tour
Grammy Award-winning artist, Pink, announced in an Instagram Live on Sunday that she will be giving away 2,000 books during her upcoming concert stops in Florida. The reason? The recent legislation in the state that prohibits classroom instruction about sexual orientation and gender identity has sparked backlash and concern among many.
Partnering with the non-profit organization PEN America, Pink intends to distribute these books which she describes as “banned” by Florida authorities. In a press release, the 44-year-old pop star expressed her strong stance against the ban and her passion for literature. “Books have held a special joy for me from the time I was a child, and that’s why I am unwilling to stand by and watch while books are banned by schools,” said Pink, “It’s especially hateful to see authorities take aim at books about race and racism and against LGBTQ authors and those of color.”
Pink, who is no stranger to LGBTQ advocacy, also opened up about her personal connection to the issue. “I’m a voracious reader and I’m a mom of two kids who are also voracious readers,” she shared in her Instagram Live, “I can’t imagine my own parents telling me what my kids can and cannot read – let alone someone else’s parents, let alone someone else that doesn’t even have children that are deciding what my children can read.”
Singer Pink will give away 2,000 banned books at Florida shows https://t.co/MiMEEOgJwN
— Mercury News (@mercnews) November 13, 2023
This move from the “Just Give Me A Reason” hitmaker comes on the heels of Governor Ron DeSantis’ signing of the Parental Rights in Education law in 2022. The law, also known as law 1557, stirred controversy as it prohibits the teaching of topics related to sexual orientation and gender identity in schools across Florida.
Pink has always been vocal about her support for the LGBTQ community and she deeply appreciates their support in return. “I think [my LGBTQ+ following] just speaks to who I am and what I believe in, and what I’ve always been,” she shared in an interview with Gay Times, “I am definitely an ally and to be understood for that is a wonderful feeling. For any of us to be understood, that’s what we want in life, right? We want to love, be loved and be seen.”
As Pink takes the stage for her four concert dates in Florida, she aims to help raise awareness and make a statement with her giveaway. “No more banned books,” she concluded in her statement, “We have made so many strides toward equality in this country, and no one should want to see this progress reversed.” With her actions, Pink hopes to bolster the fight against censorship and contribute to an inclusive and accepting society.