Earlier this year Beyonce caused a firestorm after she paid tribute to the Black Panther Party during the Super Bowl halftime show.At long last Beyonce addresses the controversy.

What do you feel people don’t understand about who you really are and in particular about the message you put forward with Formation?

Beyonce:

I mean, I’m an artist and I think the most powerful art is usually misunderstood. But anyone who perceives my message as anti-police is completely mistaken. I have so much admiration and respect for officers and families of officers who sacrifice themselves to keep us safe. But let’s be clear: I am against police brutality and injustice. Those are two separate things. If celebrating my roots and culture during Black History Month made anyone uncomfortable, those feelings were there long before a video and long before me. I’m proud of what we created and I’m proud to be part of a conversation that is pushing things forward in a positive way.