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The star of Oscar-winning Moonlight has called for women worldwide to abstain from sex until ‘every man’ joins the fight for equal rights.
In May’s edition of Marie Claire, Janelle Monáe graces the cover under the tag line ‘The Future is Female’. In the interview, she discusses gender norms, female empowerment and the “Lysistratic non-action” approach to sex.
“People have to start respecting the vagina,” she told the publication.
“Until every man is fighting for our rights, we should consider stopping having sex. I love men. But evil men? I will not tolerate that. You don’t deserve to be in my presence.”
She continued: ‘If you’re going to own this world and this is how you’re going to rule this world, I am not going to contribute anymore until you change it.’
The actress and singer went onto discuss ‘black-girl magic’, referencing that women need to realise their own power. “Because I am all about black-girl magic, even though I’m standing with all women.
‘But this year? This year, I am so carefree black girl.”
Monáe then moved onto discussing gender norms, explaining that now, more than ever, women need to be in control.
“It is important for women to be [in control], especially when gender norms and conformity are pushed upon us,”
“Women automatically are told that this is how you should look. This is how you should get a man. This is how you should get a woman.
You need to fit into all these boxes to be accepted. I don’t subscribe to that way of thinking.”
Finally, she encouraged women everywhere to say no, and to feel powerful in doing so.
“I believe in embracing what makes you unique even if it makes others uncomfortable,” she said. “I have learned there is power in saying no. I have agency. I get to decide.”
Monáe has since taken to Twitter to clarify some of her comments in the magazine:
I don't think that, but I do get frustrated when women's rights are trampled on and disregarded. And we must demand our agency. ❤️ https://t.co/cYMi0YD5BX
— Janelle Monáe, Cindi (@JanelleMonae) April 10, 2017
