Carlos Santana Says Trans People Should Stay ‘In The Closet’

Not so “Smooth.”

During a recent concert in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Carlos Santana made statements that were perceived as being transphobic. Since then, a video of those comments has been making the rounds on social media.

“When God made you and me, before we came out of the womb, you know who you are and what you are,” Santana said. “Later on, when you grow up, you see things, and you start believing that you could be something that sounds good, but you know it ain’t right.”

He added, “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 okay with that.”

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Santana does anti trans speech

Santana then issued a statement to Billboard to clarify his thoughts. However, the guitarist didn’t necessarily walk back on his initial remarks. “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,” the statement read. “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.”

The statement went on, “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.”

These are pretty disappointing remarks for LGBTQ+ fans of Santana to listen to, particularly during a time when trans people are already under constant attack. While he has the “free will” to share his worldview, it is also hard for the LGBTQ+ community to digest these comments without feeling like they are in opposition to trans people.

Extremely disappointing, to say the least.