Train, Carly Rae Jepsen drop out of Boy Scouts performance to protest anti-gay policy

Pop star Carly Rae Jepsen and the group Train have both cancelled an appearance for the Boy Scouts of America to protest the group’s anti-gay stance.

Train dropped out of the show on Friday, posting a message on their site, noting that they didn’t know about the organization’s ban on gay members when they signed up to perform at the Boy Scouts National Jamboree. “Train strongly opposes any kind of policy that questions the equality of any American citizen,” the statement reads. “We have always seen the BSA as a great and noble organization. We look forward to participating in the Jamboree this summer, as long as they make the right decision before then.”

Jepsen took to Twitter today to announce that she was pulling out as well, notes TMZ. “As an artist who believes in equality for all people, I will not be participating in the Boy Scouts of America Jamboree this summer,” the “Call Me Maybe” singer wrote. “I always have and will continue to support the LGBT community on a global level...and stay informed on the ever changing landscape in the ongoing battle for gay rights in this country and across the globe.”

As an artist who believes in equality for all people, I will not be participating in the Boy Scouts of America Jamboree this summer...

— Carly Rae Jepsen (@carlyraejepsen) March 5, 2013

According to ABC News, Train had backed out after a petition on Change.org gained notice on the web. It was started by Derek Nance, a gay Eagle Scout. He earned 63,455 signatures and has declared victory.

The Boy Scouts have come under increased pressure to drop their ban on gay members and parents. Last month, the group said they would discuss dropping the policy, but have not made any changes.

image: NBC