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BET Awards 2022: Janelle Monae says 'F**k you, Supreme Court', divided social media calls her 'classless'

Janelle Monae gave the middle finger to the SCOTUS while slamming the Roe v Wade ruling

Celebrities have been using award shows as a medium for their voices to reach the public, especially when they speak about an important matter, and this year’s BET Awards were no different. A few days ago the Supreme Court of the United States shocked the nation when it overruled the iconic ‘Roe v Wade’ verdict which protected the right to abortion in every state and singer-turned-actress Janelle Monae had some really strong words for the institution.

As a result of the reversal, twenty-six states are expected to ban or severely restrict abortion. The new abortion laws make the US one of just four countries to roll back abortion rights. Poland, Nicaragua, and El Salvador are the three countries that did the same.

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Sharing her thoughts on the decision, the 36-year-old artist slammed the Supreme Court for the decision, giving a “middle finger” to the biggest court of the land. Monae, who came to the stage for presenting the Best Female R&B Pop Artist at the BET Awards, began her monologue by giving a special shout-out to Black artists for making art on their own terms. She also praised them for expressing themselves “freely” in a world that tries to control everything.

“Anyway, I'd like to give a special, special shout out to Black women, to Black queer artists, to Black nonbinary artists. These artists making art on our own terms, owning our truths and expressing ourselves freely and unapologetically in a world that tries to control and police our bodies, my body, and our decisions, my decisions.” Monae said.

The artist went on to say “F*** you, Supreme Court” during the ceremony and showed the middle finger to the institution for such a poor decision. Although the expletive was bleeped during the broadcast, but the middle-finger gesture was shown. Monae concluded by saying, “We must celebrate our art by protecting our rights and our truths.”

The comments made by the artist received a rousing response from all the celebrities that were sitting inside the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. On the other hand, social media was divided over Monae’s comments, with some praising the artist for speaking about how they are feeling right now. Meanwhile, some called her “classless”.

One of the fans wrote, “Amen, Janelle! You read the mind of women.” Another social media user said, “I think we all, on this side, feel the same way. She just gave a voice to our frustrations.” Another fan tweeted, “I didn't think it was possible to love Janelle Monae more but here we are.” Another fan wrote, “Miss Janelle should receive an award for that.”

On the other hand, there were many who called her out for her actions. One of the social media users wrote, “What is it with stars misbehaving at awards shows this year? Can everyone get some decorum back and start getting their shit together?” Another social media user said, “Classy. Way to be a role model. Instead of fighting like an adult and professional, toys impress upon children the wrong way to go about this. Bravo.” Another social media user wrote, “What a fool.”

“Classless! There is a place and time to behave in such manner regardless what’s your opinion is about this issue! Millions of people, families, and children watching the show! That’s why I no longer watch the BET Awards it’s now a Shit Show ghetto hood! Glad I did not tune in!” said another one.

The awards that honor actors, musicians, and athletes for their contributions, were aired live from LA.

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