Carlos Santana Apologizes For Anti-Trans Comment Controversy

Following the anti-trans comments he made in one of his recent concerts, Carlos Santana has apologized in a now-deleted statement.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, the legendary guitarist wrote:

“I am sorry for my insensitive comments.
“They don’t reflect that I want to honor and respect all person’s ideals and beliefs. I realize that what I said hurt people and that was not my intent. I sincerely apologize to the transgender community and everyone I offended.”

He continued:

“Here is my personal goal that I strive to achieve every day.
“I want to honor and respect all person’s ideals and beliefs whether they are LGBTQ or not. This is the planet of free will and we have all been given this gift. I will now pursue this goal to be happy and have fun, and for everyone to believe what they want and follow in your hearts without fear. It takes courage to grow and glow in the light that you are and to be true, genuine, and authentic. We grow and learn to shine our light with love and compliments. Have a glorious existence. Peace.”

Santana spoke about his anti-trans views during his show last month in Atlantic City, where he said to the crowd:

“When God made you and me, before we came out of the womb, you know who you are and what you are.
“Later on, when you grow out of it, you see things, and you start believing that you could be something that…it sounds good, but you know it ain’t right. Because a woman is a woman and a man is a man. That’s it. Whatever you wanna do in the closet, that’s your business. I’m OK with that.”

He even mentioned his friend Dave Chappelle who’s an iconic comedian and actor known for his satirical humor and was also criticized in the past for making transphobic jokes in his stand-ups.

Santana’s speech got mixed reactions. Some cheers were heard from the audience who seemed to agree with his statement. (www.thisnation.com) While other attendees thought it was unnecessary and “seemed to come out of nowhere.”

Watch the video below.