Beyonce calls for equality in North Carolina

Beyonce has taken a stand against North Carolina's 'Bathroom Bill' on her website following a performance in the state on Tuesday (03May16).

A number of musicians, including Bruce Springsteen, Pearl James, Demi Lovato and Nick Jonas have dropped tour dates in North Carolina to protest against House Bill 2, which was passed in March (16), allowing discriminatory practices against those in the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

The bill was dubbed the 'Bathroom Bill' as it forces transgender people to use public restrooms based on biological gender rather than the gender they currently identify themselves as.

Beyonce still performed in Raleigh on Tuesday (03May16) but she made it clear she wasn't happy with the new bill in a statement on her official website.

"As The Formation World Tour makes its stop in the Tar Heel state in the midst of such a controversial time, we think it is important for us to bring attention to those who are committed to being good and carrying on the message of equality in this core of controversy," the message reads.

Her note also promoted the work of Equality NC, a local organisation working for equal rights and justice for the LGBT community in the state.

"Learn more about how you can support Equality NC by donating, volunteering, becoming an ambassador, attending an event, or simply spreading the word!", the statement concludes.

Beyonce's open-air North Carolina show was temporarily halted due to extreme weather and lightning. The singer was rushed off stage and crowds were evacuated but she returned to finish the concert after the bad weather had passed.