The entertainment business is still very sexist: Beyoncé

The icon also made a powerful statement on the Black Lives Matter movement


Entertainment Desk June 10, 2020
Photo: Instagram

Pop star Beyoncé Knowles says the entertainment business is still very sexist and male-dominated.

The icon made a powerful statement on sexism in the industry and the Black Lives Matter movement recently, admitting she had to work extra hard and carve her path to success.

"I know how hard it is to step out and bet on yourself," Times of India quoted the Crazy In Love hit maker as saying. "But the entertainment business is still very sexist. It's still very male-dominated and as a woman, I did not see enough female role models given the opportunity for what I knew I had to do: run my label and management company, direct my films and produce my tours that meant ownership of my masters, my art, my future and writing my own story.”

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She added, “Not enough black women had a seat at the table so I had to go and chop down that wood and build my own table. Then I had to invite the best there was to have a seat. That meant hiring women, men, outsiders, underdogs… people that were overlooked and waiting to be seen.”

Knowles believes race and gender play a big role in the industry. "Many of the best creatives and business people, although supremely qualified and talented, were turned down by major corporations because they were female or because of racial disparity. And I've been very proud to provide them with a place at my table,” she said.

“One of the main purposes of my art, for many years, has been dedicated to showing the beauty of black people to the world; our history, our profundity and our value. I've tried my best to pull down the veil of appeasement to those who may feel uncomfortable with our excellence."

The superstar continued, "To the young women, our future leaders, know that you're about to make the world turn. I see you. You are everything the world needs. Make those power moves. Be excellent. And to the young kings, lean into your vulnerability and redefine masculinity. Lead with heart. There's so many different ways to be brilliant. I believe you and every human being is born with a masterful gift. Don't let the world make you feel that you have to look a certain way to be brilliant.”

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According to Knowles, being unapologetically you is one of the key ingredients of success. "To all those who feel different, if you're part of a group that's called 'other,' a group that does not get the chance to be center stage, build your own stage and make them see you,” she went on.
“Your queerness is beautiful; your blackness is beautiful. Your compassion, your understanding, your fight for people who may be different from you, is beautiful. I hope you continue to go into the world and show them that you will never stop being yourself. That it's your time now, make them see you.”

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