Lewis Hamilton criticised the anti-LGBTQ measures enacted by Florida lawmakers, including the controversial “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
Florida’s board of education approved an expansion of the Parental Rights in Education bill, known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by opponents. The law prohibits all discussion of sexuality and gender identity and sexual orientation in all Florida classrooms.
Speaking to the media, Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton spoke up about his concerns over the social injustices occurring in the state.
“It’s not good at all. I stand by those within the community here. I hope they continue to stand firm and push back. I’ll have the rainbow on my helmet. It’s no different to when we were in Saudi,” Hamilton said.
The 38-year-old hasn’t backed down from using his platform to address social issues in the countries that Formula 1 visits despite the FIA’s prohibition of using motorsport to promote political messages.
Despite his criticism of the state’s expansion of anti-LGBTQ measures, the seven-time champion would not say whether F1 should avoid racing in Florida.
“It’s not for me to decide something like that. I did hear and have read about some of the decisions that have been made in government here and I do not agree with it and I do not support it.
“I really do continue to stand with the LGBTQ community and I’m wearing a rainbow flag on my helmet this weekend and I just really want to continue to support the community here and let them know I stand with them and I hope they continue to fight against it.
“It’s not the people of Miami that are making these decisions, it’s the people in government and that’s the issue.
“I think, hopefully, all I can do – the sport is going to be here whether I am or not – but the least I can do is just continue to be supportive and just being here and having that on my helmet, hopefully that speaks well to the subject.”
Hamilton hosted former first lady Michelle Obama at last year’s Miami Grand Prix where he was outspoken about the US Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade.
“I love being in the States, but I can’t ignore what’s going on right now and what some in the government are trying to do to the women who live here,” Hamilton said in 2022.
“Everyone should have the right to choose what they do with their bodies. We can’t let that choice be taken away.”
