Pearl Jam cancels North Carolina show in opposition of 'HB2' law

RALEIGH, N.C., April 19 (UPI) -- Pearl Jam cancelled a concert scheduled in Raleigh, North Carolina in opposition to the HB2 Public Facilities Privacy and Security Act, which limited the rights of transgender individuals in the state.

The band released a handwritten statement on their website declaring that the show scheduled for April 20 would be cancelled and encouraged fans to petition against what the band described as "a despicable piece of legislation."

"It is with deep consideration and much regret that we must cancel the Raleigh show in North Carolina on April 20th," the statement read. "This will be upsetting to those who have tickets and you can be assured that we are equally frustrated by the situation."

With their decision Pearl Jam joins other notable acts such as Bruce Springsteen and Ringo Starr, who also cancelled performances in North Carolina due to the legislation.

The band stated its solidarity with other acts as well as other artists' local businesses, citing the law's discriminatory nature as the reason for their opposition.

"The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens," they wrote. "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 statement went on to say that the band has looked into providing funding to local groups that oppose the bill. They also shared links to organizations that they are supporting as well as a link to a petition to repeal the law.

According to the post, fans who had already purchased tickets to the show will have their purchase refunded.