Utah Congressman Claims Beyoncé's Grammy Win Is Result of DEI Policies
Republican Congressman Burgess Owens, Utah's only Black delegate, has sparked controversy by attributing Beyoncé's Grammy win for Best Country Album to DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives rather than merit.
Congressman in suit with red tie
Speaking to video journalist Nicholas Ballasy, Owens criticized the historic win, stating, "I think that's the closest thing to DEI we're going to see right now." He admitted to not being a country music listener and based his assessment solely on genre fans' reactions.
Owens argued that Beyoncé's win undermines established country artists' hard work, claiming, "Nobody respects that." He drew a controversial parallel between this situation and transgender women competing in women's sports.
When asked to specify which album should have won instead, Owens offered no alternative. The Salt Lake Tribune's request for clarification on how the win exemplified DEI went unanswered by his office.
Beyoncé addressed genre barriers in her acceptance speech, stating, "I think sometimes genre is a codeword to keep us in our place as artists." Her album "Cowboy Carter" features prominent country artists including Dolly Parton, Linda Martell, and Willie Nelson, along with emerging talents like Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, and others.
Black woman with braided hair
The album has garnered significant industry support and Beyoncé is preparing for an upcoming tour to promote "Cowboy Carter."
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