Beyoncé says she will remove a word considered an insult to people with special needs from her album "Renaissance" after facing backlash and criticism online.
The singer received rave reviews when she released her latest album, but came under fire over the weekend when fans noticed the inclusion of a derogatory term in the song "Heated." On the Drake-penned song, Beyoncé sings the line: "Spazzin' on that ass, spazz on that ass."
Although the word "spaz" is often used to describe "euphoria due to overwhelming emotions," it is derived from the word "spastic," which is considered derogatory for people with spastic cerebral palsy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the disorder affects a person's ability to control their muscles, especially in the arms and legs.
In June, Lizzo was also criticized for using the same term in the song "Grrrls". "So Beyoncé used the word 'sp**' in her new song 'Heated.' It feels like a slap in the face to me, the disability community and the progress we tried to make with Lizzo," campaigner Hannah Diviney wrote .
A representative for Beyoncé told the media that the lyrics will change. "The word, not intentionally used in a harmful way, will be replaced," the statement said.
Sense, a disability charity, tweeted:
"Beyonce has a history of championing inclusivity and we're glad she listened to feedback and agreed to re-record lyrics that many people with disabilities find offensive. We understand that the word was not intentionally used to cause harm, but words have power and can reinforce the negative attitudes that marginalized groups face. We want to thank Beyoncé for listening and we look forward to continuing to enjoy the song.”
