Ranchers protest sees Joan Jett switching floats for Thanksgiving parade

The punk icon was due to perform on a float representing the state at the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade but South Dakota ranchers protested against her inclusion, stating that as a vegetarian, she was a critic of their line of work. “When we learned that about Miss Jett, we were rightly concerned about her representing South Dakota and a state that is so heavily reliant on agriculture and livestock production to drive our economy,” said Jodiae Anderson of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, via CNN.

Jett has now said that she will move to another float for the parade, which takes place on November 28. “I’ve decided to switch from South Dakota to another float because people’s political agendas were getting in the way of what should be a purely entertainment driven event,” said Jett. “I will remain focused on entertaining the millions of people watching, who will be celebrating a great American tradition.”

Joan Jett And The Blackhearts released their new album ‘Unvarnished’ earlier this autumn. Dave Grohl guests on the album – Jett’s first release since 2006’s ‘Sinner’ – as does Against Me!’s Laura Jane Grace.

Source: NME