Crossover icon Taylor Swift surprises fans by making an appearance at the Stonewall Inn in New York City on the night of the 14th of June, Friday. Together with Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson, the duo performed Swift’s iconic hit “Shake It Off” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of an LGBTQ rights milestone.
2019 is a big year for LGBTQ rights. It heralds the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall riots, a series of protests and demonstrations by the members of the LGBTQ community in Greenwich Village against a police raid that began at the Stonewall Inn in 1969. These demonstrations are essentially regarded as some of the most important and pivotal moments that helped the cause of the LGBTQ community in terms of pushing their advocacy forward.
Taylor Swift’s Petition and Support
It is not the first time that Swift has shown support to the members of the LGBTQ community. In early June, she kicked off Pride Month with a petition to her local senator to support the equality act.
The bill, which passed the House of Representatives last month, is an amendment to the 1964 Civil Rights Act. This allows the protection of the members of the LGBTQ community against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, most notably in the workplace, housing, jury selections, and public accommodations.
For You
She has also released a new song entitled “You Need to Calm Down.” In her upcoming album entitled Lover, the uplifting song is anthemic as it sends a great message to the public about equality. It is an anti-hate song and was released amidst the celebration of Pride Month. “You Need to Calm Down” calls out anti-gay sentiment and sexism and perpetuates the ‘need to calm down’ and just let other people live.
Her Pride anthem has lead to a significant influx of GLAAD donations. GLAAD is a media advocacy organization that supports and campaigns for the members of the LGBTQ community. Donations in the form of $13 have been pouring in, maybe even a nod to Swift’s favorite number.
