Rapper Nicki Minaj pulls out of Saudi Arabia concert citing support for women’s, LGBTQ rights

LOS ANGELES, July 9 (Reuters) – U.S. rapper Nicki Minaj said on Tuesday she was pulling out of a planned concert in Saudi Arabia next week, citing her support for the rights of women and the LGBTQ community.

“After careful reflection I have decided to no longer move forward with my scheduled concert at Jeddah World Fest. While I want nothing more than to bring my show to fans in Saudi Arabia, after better educating myself on the issues, I believe it is important for me to make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression,” the singer said in a statement.

(Reporting by Jill Serjeant Editing by Chris Reese)