Cyndi shows her true colours in support of gays
Eighties songstress and gay icon Cyndi Lauper is to headline a 15-city tour across America in support of LGBT rights.
The True Colours tour will also feature legendary artists such as Debbie Harry and The Dresden Dolls, along with newer bands such as The Gossip.
The idea of the tour was conceived by Lauper as a way of giving back to the gay community, who she feels have supported her throughout her career in pop music.
The tour will begin June 8th in Las Vegas, kicking off the Las Vegas Gay and Lesbian Pride Month.
One dollar of every ticket sold will go to Human Rights Campaign, which is America’s largest organisation working for LGBT equality.
The hope is that the True Colours tour will raise awareness about the issues facing the LGBT community, and will unite Americans against discrimination.
Lauper, 53, said: “I was raised to believe that all people have the right to live with the same dignity, opportunity and safety. This should include everyone, no matter what gender or sexual orientation.
“This tour was created to celebrate our differences by raising awareness for liberty, fairness and dignity for everyone – not just some of us.
“Our fans can come out to celebrate a great cause while also hearing some great music.”
Lauper decided to name the tour after her song True Colours after gay fans told her that the song inspired them after they had come out to their friends and family.
She told AP: “They were disowned by their family and their friends and their jobs got all messed up and they were totally alone, and suicidal, and then they heard True Colours and it made them feel hopeful.”
Human Rights Campaign president Joe Solmonese said: “Without fear Cyndi Lauper has been a champion for equality for not only gay and lesbian Americans but for all people.
“Cyndi has always stood with us and selflessly used her talents to promote fairness for everyone. We are honoured to be a part of the True Colours tour, which will empower both gay and straight Americans to show solidarity against discrimination.”
The True Colours Tour will be presented by Logo, the new digital cable channel from MTV Networks tailored for the gay and lesbian audience.
The channel is now seen in 26 million homes and has 100 advertising partners.
Tickets for the True Colours Tour for select cities will go on sale Friday March 16th.
