Nicki Minaj Apologizes for Malcolm X Photo, Urges End to "N-gga Behavior

Nicki Minaj has come out and apologized for using a photo of Malcolm X for the cover of her latest single, "Lookin’ Ass N-gga." The artist came under heavy fire today for re-publishing an image first used by Ebony magazine in 1961 in which the civil right leader is holding a machine gun. 

In a long Instagram post, the ex-American Idol panelist begins by lashing out at her critics, writing:

"What seems to be the issue now? Do you have a problem with me referring to the people Malcolm X was ready to pull his gun out on as Lookin Ass Niggaz? Well, I apologize. That was never the official artwork nor is this an official single.

"This is a conversation. Not a single."

Minaj then grows more conciliatory as the post goes on, however.

"I apologize to the Malcolm X estate if the meaning of the photo was misconstrued," she writes, adding a larger statement about society:

The word “nigga” causes so much debate in our community while the “nigga” behavior gets praised and worship. Let’s not. Apologies again to his family. I have nothing but respect an adoration for u."

Minaj has also taken the photo down.

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