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Jason Merritt/Getty Images via ABCIggy Azalea has pulled out of an appearance at Pittsburgh’s Pride celebration on June 13 after her participation was called into question by several groups that support the LGBT community.
The Australian rapper had been criticized for perceived racist and homophobic comments she made on social media. On Monday, she tweeted a statement in which she informed her fans that she will no longer be performing at the event.
She said, “This has been a difficult decision as I truly support the event and LGBTIQA communities, however I feel my participation at this point would only serve to further distract from the true purpose of the event.
“I am a firm believer in equality. Unfortunately in the past as a young person, I used words I should not have. The last thing I want is for something so carelessly said to be interpreted as reflective of my character.”
She continued, “I meant no harm and deeply regret ever uttering those words. As an adult I would never use them because I understand they play a detrimental role in the fight for issues that I do truly believe in.”
Organizations including the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network had dropped out of the Pride celebration due to Iggy’s involvement.
The cancellation of Iggy’s appearance at the event comes a week after she pulled the plug on her Great Escape Tour because, she said, she was unable to find opening acts after initially postponing the trek.
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