Christian pop music singer Lauren Daigle today issued a statement about the controversy over her appearance at a prayer event in the French Quarter last month and her potential New Year's Eve appearance on national television, The Times-Picayune | New Orleans Advocate reports.
Daigle drew the ire of New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell when the singer ended up involved in a protest that flouted coronavirus pandemic restrictions.
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The event was organized by California activist Sean Feucht, who has staged similar demonstrations in other cities during the pandemic. The unmasked, tightly packed crowd angered Mayor Cantrell, who said it endangered lives under "the pretense of religion."
Daigle said she stumbled across the event on a bike ride and joined the crowd in prayer. When recognized and asked to sing, she agreed.
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Read Daigle's full statement below:
"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.
"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.
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"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. My involvement was focused on lifting spirits, providing hope, and encouragement, during these polarizing times.
"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.
"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. I have wept, pleading for this chaos to dissipate and for harmony to return. We need unity when people are desperate, suffering, starving or out of work.
"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. They have been a balm for my soul throughout this process."
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