Carlos Santana, a legendary guitarist and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, has apologized for making anti-transgender remarks during a concert in Atlantic City on August 21, 2023.
Santana, who is 74 years old, said that people know their true gender before they are born, and that a woman is a woman and a man is a man. He also expressed his support for Dave Chappelle, a comedian who has been criticized for making anti-trans jokes in his Netflix specials.
“You were born with the right chromosome. I don’t care how much you confuse the world or yourself. You were born with the right chromosome. God don’t make mistakes,” Santana said. “Dave Chappelle is my brother. I stand with him all the way to heaven. Because he speaks the truth.”
Santana’s remarks were captured on video by a fan and went viral on social media, sparking backlash from many people who called him transphobic, ignorant, and insensitive.
“Carlos Santana is cancelled. How disappointing to hear such ignorant and hateful words from someone who claims to be a spiritual person,” a Twitter user wrote.
“I’m a huge fan of Carlos Santana but this is unacceptable. Trans people are valid and deserve respect. He needs to educate himself and apologize,” another Twitter user wrote.
Santana later issued a statement to Billboard, saying that he wants to honor and respect everyone’s beliefs and choices. He apologized for any offense he may have caused and said that he loves all people regardless of their gender identity.
“I want to clarify that I love and respect everyone’s beliefs and choices. I celebrate diversity in every aspect of my life and music. I was honored to share the stage with an amazing group of musicians from all walks of life at Atlantic City,” Santana said.
Santana is not the first celebrity to face controversy for his views on transgender issues. Other examples include J.K. Rowling, Ricky Gervais, and Graham Linehan, who have all been accused of transphobia by some activists and fans.
Transgender rights have become a hot topic in recent years, as more people have come out as trans or non-binary, and more laws and policies have been enacted to protect or restrict their rights. According to the Human Rights Campaign, at least 44 transgender or gender non-conforming people were killed in the U.S. in 2022, the highest number ever recorded.
Relevant articles:
– Carlos Santana Goes on Anti-Trans Diatribe During Concert, Yahoo Entertainment, August 24, 2023
– Carlos Santana Makes Polarizing Anti-Trans Comments in Viral Concert Clip, Variety, August 24, 2023
– Carlos Santana Went on Anti-Transgender Rant During Concert, Remezcla, August 24, 2023
– Carlos Santana Issues Apology After His Anti-Trans Remarks In Concert, Hollywood Life, August 24, 2023