Pearl Jam will join the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Bryan Adams and others as artists to cancel their scheduled appearance in the state of North Carolina after HB2 was passed in the state house. The band confirmed today that their April 20 show at Raleigh, NC’s PNC Arena will be canceled in opposition of the law. 

“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 wrote in an open letter on their website. “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.”

The band also added that they are working with local groups and will be providing them with funds to “help facilitate progress on this issue. In the meantime we will be watching with hope and waiting in line for a time when we can return.”

Read the full statement below. Pearl Jam’s tour resumes tonight in Hampton, VA. 

It is with deep consideration and much regret that we must cancel the Raleigh show in North Carolina on April 20th.

This will be upsetting to those who have tickets and you can be assured that we are equally frustrated by the situation.

The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens. 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.

We have communicated with local groups and will be providing them with funds to help facilitate progress on this issue.

In the meantime we will be watching with hope and waiting in line for a time when we can return.

Perhaps even celebrate.

With immense gratitude for your understanding,

Pearl Jam