As we celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander month and walk into June Pride celebrations, LA native Hayley Kiyoko graced her hometown with a stellar performance Tuesday night at the Wiltern.
Photos & Words by Asha Moné
The “Girls Like Girls” songstress, dubbed “Lesbian Jesus” by fans, Hayley Kiyoko, transformed the venue into a safe space for LGBTQ-identifying individuals and allies to be themselves, make friends, and sing their hearts out to all of her hits, including “Found my friends,” “Sugar at the bottom” and “Panorama.”
“I just want to dance with you tonight” shone on the stage at the start of the performance, and Kiyoko made sure to deliver. It was a fantastic experience, watching fans light up with joy as they watched someone who looked like them be their authentic self onstage. Representation matters, and Tuesday night at the Wiltern was a reminder.
If you have seen Kiyoko’s social media, you are aware of her taking a stand against Tennessee’s drag ban at a tour stop earlier this month, as well as her continuous support of those fighting for their right to self-expression. In addition, Kiyoko made sure to have a resource table for LGBTQ individuals placed as soon as you walk into the venue, and I know fans were happy to see that. I have to applaud her for those stands. We need more activism in the music world.
Here is a photographic look into a memorable night of pop music, queer expression, and plain old fun.
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