Nicki Minaj Cancels Saudi Arabia Concert in Show of Support for LGBT+ and Women’s Rights
Nicki Minaj has announced she will no longer be headlining the Jeddah World Festival on July 18, a state-sponsored alcohol-free event.
The Human Rights Foundation had previously written Minaj an open letter asking her to cancel her appearance at the event.
“You recently celebrated Pride Week to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQ community,” they said.
“Yet, if you move forward with this performance, you will be condoning, and serving the public relations needs, of a government that executes homosexuals for the “crime” of being who they are.
“Just three months ago five gay men were beheaded after they confessed to crimes under torture.
“If you move forward with this performance for a festival sponsored by the Crown Prince, you will be in league with the people who respond to freedom of expression and thought with murder.”
“After careful reflection I have decided to no longer move forward with my scheduled concert at Jeddah World Fest,” Minaj said in a statement.
“While I want nothing more than to bring my show to fans in Saudi Arabia, after better educating myself on the issues, I believe it is important for me to make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression.”
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