Beyonce faced backlash for dedicating Grammy win to ‘queer community’ after controversial Dubai performance
(Picture: REUTERS)Beyoncé has faced a backlash for dedicating her Grammy Award wins to the "queer community" just weeks after she performed in Dubai.
The singer had reportedly bagged $25 million for putting on a spectacular show on January 21 in the UAE country, which is known for its anti-LGBTQ laws and homophobia.
On Sunday, the 41-year-old star made history for the most Grammy wins ever after scooping her 32nd gong at the ceremony.
In her acceptance speech, the tearful star thanked her rapper husband, Jay Z, their three children, and late gay uncle, who she previously said inspired her new album.
She said in part: "Thank you, God. I’d like to thank my uncle Jonny, who’s not here. But he’s here in spirit...
"I’d like to thank the queer community for your love and for inventing this genre. God bless you. Thank you so much to the Grammys. Thank you.’
However, many viewers were quick to call out Beyonce for referencing the LGBTQ community in light of her Dubai concert.
One wrote on Twitter: "Beyoncé thanked the queer community at the Grammys… having just been paid $24m for a show in Dubai where homosexuality and gender reassignment are illegal.
"Why do all these huge celebrities think they can have it both ways?"
Another wrote: "Am I the only one who thought… Beyoncé shouldn’t have won??
"Her album was dedicated to the Black Queer community and then went to Dubai (banned anything Queer) to make quick profit??
"Like you have to be an ally as a whole, not just for profit. #GRAMMYs"
A third commented: "Beyoncé thanking the queer community at the Grammys seconds after she performed in Dubai… I’m so glad she lost AOTY [Album OF The Year] honestly."
Another agreed, adding: "Beyonce and those fake tears showing fake love to the queers. You didn’t get AOTY because we are everywhere, dear. Yes, on Grammy voting panels too bwahaha."
The singer had been nominated for nine awards.
She bagged Best R&B Song, Best Traditional R&B Performance, Best Dance/Electronic Music Album and Best Dance/Electronic Recording for her work on her hit album, Renaissance - an ode to black, queer dance culture.
