![]() “This core kindness, the embracing of wildness and weirdness, is what has nurtured the great literature that has come from our state,” said the letter, whose signatures include those of former US poet laureate Natasha Tretheway National Book Award winner Jesmyn Ward Pulitzer prize winner Donna Tartt Grisham and Greg Iles, who write thrillers and Kathryn Stockett, author of The Help. They said the legislation was an example of Mississippi’s reactionary side but the state also had a humane side that treasured compassion. The writers said in an open letter released that House Bill 1523 had prompted hateful rhetoric that poisoned the political process. On Monday a group of 95 Mississippi writers joined the protest, with luminaries including John Grisham and Donna Tartt urging state officials to repeal the law. “It is the strongest means I have for raising my voice in opposition to those who continue to push us backwards instead of forwards.” “Some things are more important than a rock show and this fight against prejudice and bigotry – which is happening as I write – is one of them,” Springsteen said in a statement. Springsteen had canceled his show to signal his opposition to a new law which will compel public institutions to post signs designating that bathrooms and locker rooms are to be used only based on biological sex. Supporters of the law known as HB1523 argue it offers protection for Christians who adhere to traditional views of marriage and gender roles. ![]() The Mississippi law, which Governor Phil Bryant signed on 5 April amid opposition from equal rights groups and businesses, will take effect on 1 July.
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