Lauren Daigle Speaks Out Against Divisiveness After New Year’s Performance Controversy
By Movieguide® Staff
After the mayor of New Orleans voiced her displeasure at Christian artist Lauren Daigle’s spontaneous appearance on the public worship event LET US WORSHIP, Daigle responded.
The controversy first began with Mayor LaToya Cantrell. The mayor sent a letter that demanded that Dick Clark Productions ban Daigle from the New Orleans segment of the DICK CLARK’S NEW YEAR’S ROCKIN EVE telecast.
In a statement, the Christian pop star from Lafayette said she is “disappointed that my spontaneous participation” in the French Quarter rally “become part of the political discourse and I’m saddened by the divisive agendas of these times.”
Daigle said that the worship was “focused on lifting spirits, providing hope and encouragement during these polarizing times.”
Although Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser pushed for Daigle to be on the show and said that the state’s $500,000 contribution to the telecast’s production costs assumed Daigle’s appearance, sources found no formal invitation to Daigle.
“I would have been, and still would be, honored to represent our city on New Year’s Eve and although I was aware of discussions regarding my involvement, an offer was never made,” Daigle said.
Daigle recently performed her hit “You Say” on the season finale of NBC’s THE VOICE and said her love for New Orleans and the people who support her and “have been a balm for my soul throughout this process.”
Daigle said: “I love the city of New Orleans. Its music, culture and creative people are unlike any other, and its rich history should be celebrated. That is what my work within the city has always focused on — my deep desire to see New Orleans and its music scene flourish.”
Daigle confirmed that her appearance in Sean Feucht’s LET US WORSHIP tour was not planned.
“To be clear, I had no part in creating or planning the event that took place in the French Quarter last month. I was not scheduled to perform, and I was not a part of its promotion. Out riding my bike with a friend, I saw NOPD barricades set in place and uniformed police officers providing protection for a gathering of people that had come to pray. I was asked to sing,” Daigle said.
Daigle maintained that she participated in offering people hope and encouragement in a difficult time.
“To me, that is the very moment when music serves its higher purpose. It’s what gives people encouragement, hope for a better future, and it’s what can usher joy into their hearts,” Daigle said. “My involvement was focused on lifting spirits, providing hope, and encouragement, during these polarizing times.”
Daigle added: “I’m disappointed that my spontaneous participation has become part of the political discourse and I’m saddened by the divisive agendas of these times.”
Again Daigle thanked her supporters and said that she is grateful for Louisiana.
“I have a deep and profound love for the state of Louisiana, for the city of New Orleans and the people that reside here. I want to thank everyone who has offered kind words and support,” Daigle said.
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Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.
What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.
Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
