Beyonce Addresses “Formation” Controversy

Everyone has had an opinion on Beyonce’s “Formation” video since its debut in February. One person we hadn’t heard from was Beyonce herself — that is until now.

Beyonce is reportedly covering 45 May issues of Elle magazine internationally. In her interview with Elle USA, she discusses “Formation” and the subsequent backlash she’s received from some. “I mean, I’m an artist and I think the most powerful art is usually misunderstood,” said Beyonce. “But anyone who perceives my message as anti-police is completely mistaken. I have so much admiration and respect for officers and families of officers who sacrifice themselves to keep us safe. But let’s be clear: I am against police brutality and injustice. Those are two separate things.”

Beyonce goes on to point out that if her loving her blackness offends you, that’s a problem with you, not her.  “If celebrating my roots and culture during Black History Month made anyone uncomfortable, those feelings were there long before a video and long before me. I’m proud of what we created and I’m proud to be part of a conversation that is pushing things forward in a positive way.”

Beyonce’s Elle issue hits newsstands nationwide on April 19.