The Canadian Press - ONLINE EDITION

Carly Rae Jepsen backs out of Boy Scouts event over rules barring gay members

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Carly Rae Jepsen is cancelling her performance at the Boy Scouts of America Jamboree because of the scouts' exclusion of gays.

Jepsen said Tuesday on Twitter that "as an artist who believes in equality for all people" she's pulling out of the July gathering. The event, held once every four years, is expected to draw more than 45,000.

Rock band Train also warned that it won't appear unless the organization stops barring participation by gay scouts or adult leaders. Train said on its website that it was unaware of the policy before agreeing to perform and that the organization must now make "the right decision."

BSA director of publicity Deron Smith said the BSA appreciates "everyone's right to express an opinion" and remains focused on staging a great jamboree.

You can comment on most stories on winnipegfreepress.com. You can also agree or disagree with other comments. All you need to do is register and/or login and you can join the conversation and give your feedback.

Have Your Say

New to commenting? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.

The Winnipeg Free Press does not necessarily endorse any of the views posted. By submitting your comment, you agree to our Terms and Conditions. These terms were revised effective April 16, 2010.

letters

Make text: Larger | Smaller

LATEST VIDEO

Andrew Ladd on the Jets' lack of a playoff season

View more like this

Photo Store Gallery

  • RUTH BONNEVILLE / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS June 23, 2011 Local - A Monarch butterfly is perched on a flower  in the newly opened Butterfly Garden in Assiniboine Park Thursday morning.
  • A mother goose has chosen a rather busy spot to nest her eggs- in the parking lot of St Vital Centre on a boulevard. Countless cars buzz by and people have begun to bring it food.-Goose Challenge Day 06 - May 08, 2012   (JOE BRYKSA / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS)

View More Gallery Photos

Poll

Can Winnipeg support a downtown grocery store?

View Results

Ads by Google