By Justin Higuchi from Los Angeles, CA, via Wikimedia Commons
Iggy Azalea
"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," Azalea wrote in a statement.
"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. I meant no harm and deeply regret ever uttering those words," the statement continues. "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. I am sorry to anyone I have offended or disappointed & I wish all my fans and friends participating in Pride the best of luck.”
That statement came via a press release issued by the Delta Foundation, whose pick of Azalea to headline its Pride Festivities has led to several high-profile boycotts and the creation of an alternative "Roots Pride", built partly on the critique that Delta caters mostly to affluent, gay white men.
"Since our initial announcement," Delta's statement reads, "we have been working very closely with Ms. Azalea’s management, publicists and agent regarding the concerns of some of our community. Pittsburgh Pride is about our community and allies coming together and showing how diverse and accepting we are as a city. Over the years, we have seen many hearts and minds change including support for marriage equality, treating all with dignity and respect and most recently the support for Caitlyn Jenner. We’re sorry that our headliner choice caused a division within our community but we believe that change happens through conversation. We are meeting with key LGBT leaders to start a discussion that will make our collective community even stronger.”
Delta is working on securing new entertainment, which "we hope to announce shortly."
