Martina McBride Latest To Drop Out Of Trump’s Freedom 250
As the United States of America inches toward its 250th birthday, Martina McBride is taking a stand against the country’s current administration.
On Thursday, shortly after the lineup was announced, the 14x Grammy nominee dropped out of her performance at the upcoming Great American State Fair, which “turned out to be misleading” as part of the White House‘s Freedom 250 celebration.
“I would like to talk to you and clear the air. I will not be performing at the Great American State Fair on June 25th,” she shared on Instagram. “I was presented with an opportunity to perform at a nonpartisan event but that turned out to be misleading. I asked lots of questions and was assured this was a nonpartisan event that was meant to celebrate ALL 50 states. In my mind I thought this was a great way to celebrate the states and also bring people together in the way that only music can. I saw it as just a bigger version of so many state fairs I have performed at over the years, celebrating community and what makes each state special.”
McBride continued, “Sounds fun, right? Wholesome even. Yesterday things started changing and what we were told is, in fact, not what is happening.
“I’ve spent my entire career singing songs about real people with real issues. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to be a voice for those who have felt like they didn’t have one. It greatly upsets me that any fan who has been moved by my music may now feel like I’m abandoning the meaning behind those songs. I assure you, that is not the case. I appreciate every single fan who has reached out. I hope to get back to the DC area very soon,” added McBride.
The ‘Independence Day’ artist’s announcement comes after Morris Day, Young MC, The Commodores and Milli Vanilli also dropped out of the June 25-July 10 event, which will take place on the National Mall.
Freedom 250 is the public-private group formed by the Trump administration to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
A spokesperson for Freedom 250 did not immediately return a request for comment. But spokesowman Rachel Reisner told The New York Times, “Freedom 250 is focused on our signature celebrations and events that honor our history and engage all Americans — welcoming all who share our goal of commemorating this milestone in a way that uplifts and unites America.”
Others announced for the Great American State Fair include Vanilla Ice, Flo Rida and Bret Michaels. The organization said that more performers are speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.
