Paramore frontwoman Hayley Williams has reiterated that racists, sexists, and transphobes are not welcome at the band's concerts. In a recent interview with Clash Magazine, she emphasized creating an inclusive environment for all supportive fans. Williams hopes that those harboring harmful ideologies will naturally feel out of place amid the positive atmosphere.
Statement Overview
Hayley Williams, lead singer of Paramore, addressed inclusivity at live shows during an interview with Clash Magazine. She stated that while everyone is invited, discriminatory attitudes have no place. "It’s so important that people feel welcome to the party," Williams said. "I’ve always said, all are welcome at our shows. But I don’t want racists around, and I don’t want sexist people around, and I don’t want people there who think that trans people are a burden."
Williams drew a firm boundary, explaining her evolving stance. "I think that’s a hard line for me now," she added. "I hope it naturally happens that people who do harbour those harmful ideologies aren’t going to feel welcome, because they’re going to walk in the door and realise that the gang’s all here, all banded together around something positive."
Background and Context
This interview builds on Williams' history of advocating for social issues, including anti-racism, LGBTQ+ rights, and climate action. Earlier this year, she referenced country singer Morgan Wallen in her song "Ego Death at a Bachelorette Party," calling him a "racist country singer" in comments to The New York Times. "It could be a couple, but I’m always talking about Morgan Wallen, I don’t give a shit," she remarked.
Williams has consistently used her platform to promote openness. As she told Clash, "All are welcome if you believe all should be welcome … If you don’t believe that, you’re not welcome!" Her passion stems from a belief in speaking out on causes she supports, as she previously shared with The New York Times: "When you’re passionate about something and you really believe in something, and have the will to spread that, yeah, talk about it."
The statement underscores Paramore's commitment to fostering safe spaces at performances, aligning with broader industry efforts toward diversity and equity.