This past Sunday night, media personality B. Scott was at the center of controversy when he was pulled from coverage of the BEt awards red carpet pre-show over what they said was his inappropriate attire.
Scott would go on twitter later that night to voice his hurt over the situation.
Late yesterday an official statement was issued from GLAAD and BET over the matter.
GLAAD’s statement read: “This year, gay television and internet personality, B. Scott, was hired by BET to host the pre-show for their annual award ceremony which aired last Sunday. Scott’s attires often does not conform to expected gender norms. BET’s decision to hire B. Scott was a great step forward but unfortunately B. Scott was reportedly asked to make changes to his ensemble.
B. Scott previously worked with GLAAD’s Young Adult program, inspiring many young adults who attended the event and heard him speak. Today he spoke with GLAAD and also released an open letter to BET on his website. In it, he writes “It’s not just about the fact that BET forced me to pull my hair back, asked me to take off my makeup, made me changed my clothes and prevented me from wearing a heel. It’s more so that from the mentality and environment created by BET made me feel less than and that something was wrong with who I am as a person.” He continues, “I initially didn’t want to talk about this situation because I was truly embarrassed. But, I feel that it’s important to know that no matter how you choose to express yourself, it is okay to be who you are.”
Unfortunately many people around the country face discrimination, and even violence, based on how they express themselves. All too often, they are expelled from school, fired from their job, or unable to find a job simply because they do not present themselves in the manner in which their gender is expected to dress.”
BET followed with: “BET Networks embraces global diversity in all its forms and seeks to maintain an inclusive workforce and a culture that values all perspectives and backgrounds. The incident with B. Scott was a singular one with a series of unfortunate miscommunications from both parties. We regret any unintentional offense to B. Scott and anyone within the LGBT community and we seek to continue embracing all gender expressions.”
The situation was a very sad on and I do hope that B.Scott pursuses legal action against BET.
SOURCE: Carlton Jordan
