Hayley Williams Accuses Tennessee Lawmakers of Racism

Hayley Williams, lead singer of Paramore, has accused Tennessee lawmakers of racism, rebuking honors from the state’s House of Representatives. This came after a resolution was passed honoring her band for their recent Grammy win, while a similar proclamation for Black folk artist Allison Russell was not immediately approved. Williams and Russell, both Tennessee residents, were both up for honors when Rep. Justin Jones (D-Nashville) introduced separate resolutions for each. Paramore won Grammys for best alternative music performance and best rock album, while Russell won her first Grammy for best American roots performance.

When it came time to vote on the resolution, the one honoring Paramore passed, but House Republican Caucus Chair Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) objected to the resolution for Russell, sending it back to committee. Faison stated that he had “several members” approach him with questions about Russell, leading to the decision to pause the resolution. While any objected resolution can technically be brought back to the House floor for another vote, The Tennessean noted that this move is often a death knell for resolutions in the state body.

Both Williams and Russell condemned the move as racially motivated. Williams called it an example of the “blatant racism of our state leadership,” while Russell accused the House of bigotry. Faison did not directly respond to these accusations or explain the questions raised about Russell. Russell has a history of activism and has spoken out against the GOP-led Tennessee House. Last year, she joined a rally protesting the expulsion of two Democratic representatives for breaking decorum rules following a school shooting.

Jones also joined Russell and Williams in implying racism played a role. He noted that while both artists have been vocal for justice, only Russell was bumped off the agenda. Russell, a biracial, Canadian-born woman who identifies as queer, has been making music for over two decades and has been politically active on issues like gun laws and Gaza. Her Grammy-winning performance was of her song “Eve is Black,” described as an “open letter to white supremacy.” Williams and Russell referenced the upcoming election, with Williams pledging to encourage young people to vote with equality in mind and Russell stating voters have a chance to make a real change in Tennessee this year.