Lizzo's Current Dancers Issue Statement of Support
The current roster of Lizzo's backup dancers – the Big Grrrls and Big Boiiis – released a lengthy statement to Instagram in support of the star in the wake of her ongoing lawsuit.
"We had the time of our lives on The Special Tour. We have been so honored to share the stage with such amazing talent," the statement reads. "The commitment to character and culture taking precedence over every movement and moment has been one of the Greatest lessons and Blessings that we could possibly ask for."
"THANK YOU to Lizzo for shattering limitations and kicking in the door way (sic) for the Big Grrrl & Big Boiii Dancers to be able to do what we love! You have created a platform where we have been able to parallel our Passion with a purpose! Not only for Us, but for Women and All people breaking Barriers."
The Grammy Award-winning singer was sued in July by three former employees accusing the singer of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. The dancers who joined Lizzo on The Special Tour, which ended last month, alluded to a different dynamic among their team.
"We've been traveling and exploring new horizons of the world,” reads the statement. “So many advantages to prevailing over hardships that society and the entertainment and beauty industry can bring...So grateful that the standards and existence of Beauty in THIS team goes beyond the surface!"
"We are a unit of unicorns, undeniably resilient and SPECIAL AF."
A video montage attached to the post is set to Lizzo's song "Rumors," which includes the lyrics, "While you're spending all your time tryna break a woman down / Realer s— is going on, baby, take a look around."
The post has received mixed reaction, with some chiming in with support while others accuse the current dancers of invalidating the experiences of the former group.
Former dancers Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez allege that they were exposed to a “sexually charged and uncomfortable” work environment. That harassment was “so severe or pervasive” that it made their employment conditions “intolerable,” they claim.
They are seeking unspecified damages for unpaid wages, loss of earnings and compensation for emotional distress.
Lizzo has denied the allegations against her, saying, in part, “I am not here to be looked at as a victim, but I also know that I am not the villain that people and the media have portrayed me to be these last few days. I am very open with my sexuality and expressing myself but I cannot accept or allow people to use that openness to make me out to be something I am not.”
“There is nothing I take more seriously than the respect we deserve as women in the world. I know what it feels like to be body shamed on a daily basis and would absolutely never criticize or terminate an employee because of their weight.”
