Washington: Pop singer Janet Jackson, who recently attended the MTV European Music Awards, used the
Washington: Pop singer Janet Jackson, who recently attended the MTV European Music Awards, used the platform to amplify the voices of other women who don’t receive the same media attention as her and are left unheard.
The ‘Made For Now’ singer who received the Global Icon Award took to the stage in Bilbao, Spain, for the MTV European Music Awards, and delivered a heart moving speech.
She began by saying, “I love you guys so much. I accept this award with profound gratitude. To be called an icon is a tremendous honor, but one that comes with a tremendous responsibility. Tonight I feel moved to speak for women whose voices have been stifled.” After a pause, the singer told the Bizkaia Arena, “I am one of those women.”
As Camila Cabello, Jason Derulo, and Lindsay Lohan, are among many other celebrities cheered for Jackson, she said that she stands with her “sisters”-the “women who have been gagged, both literally and emotionally,” as well as the “women who have been abused,” the “women who have been intimidated” and the “women who have lived in fear.”
The pop music superstar went on to speak, “Tonight, I carry the hope that a new world is emerging-a world in which caring people, male as well as female, will no longer tolerate gender inequality. Women, our voices will be heard. We will be heard when we speak out for justice. Speak out for the spirit.
Speak out for a spirit that crosses all borders, recognizes the dignity of all people and affirms the beauty of all faiths. Speak out for acts of true charity, small and large. Speak out for an all-embracing love. Because it’s love that will heal our wounds. Love that will give us the strength to come to one and other’s aid. So, let’s lift our voices. Let’s start today and let the ever-amazing love of God lead the way. With all my heart, I thank you, God. I thank all of my fans. I love you so much.”
She concluded the speech by telling her son, Eissa Al Mana, “Mama loves you,” and added, “Thank you so much for this honor.”
Jackson returned to the stage later to perform a medley of her biggest hits, including her latest single, ‘Made for Now’, along with 1989’s ‘Rhythm Nation’ and 2001’s ‘All for You’.
Cabello was the big winner at the award night, winning in four out of six categories.
