The lead vocalist for Paramore came out in fierce opposition to Donald Trump’s “Project 2025” as thousands attended the iHeartRadio Music Festival on September 21, 2024. Williams stopped her song to make a politically charged message, where she condemned the highly controversial policy framework with passion.
Known for pulling no punches, Williams said, “Project 2025 is Donald Trump’s playbook for controlling and punishing women, poor people, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community.” And with that, she had the audience cheering and gasping-just how emotionally charged her message was.
The tone in the festival had been electric throughout filled with intensity from Paramore’s performance; things changed when Williams took the mic to address the crowd. She iterated how important it is to continue being staunchly political-urging the crowd to vote, protest policies against marginalized communities. “We can’t afford to sit this one out,” she warned, calling on her fans to prevent what she described as a future of dictatorship if Project 2025 were to be implemented.
Williams has never minced her words on matters concerning society and politics, as taken from the statement she gave at the festival. Now, be it women’s rights, racial equality, or LGBTQ+ rights, Williams has had a steady platform for the voice of those groups.
The audience reaction summed up how divided an issue it still is: loads of cheers from some, jaw-dropped others. Williams stood in for that moment, full heart, reminding all in attendance how demanding their voice and vote really count.
