Michelle Shocked Statement: I Have 'Never Believed God Hates Homosexuals'

Days after a reported homophobic rant during a concert in San Francisco, folk singer Michelle Shocked is clarifying her position on the issue, saying in fact she was describing the beliefs of "intolerant" and "scared" born-again Christians.

According to Spin, Shocked released two statements today regarding her beliefs. "I do not, nor have I ever, said or believed that God hates homosexuals (or anyone else)," Shocked said. "I said some of His followers believe that."

Shocked went on to say the commentary, which came during the encore, was her "predicting the absurd way my description of, my apology for, the intolerant would be no doubt be misinterpreted." She also said while she doesn't "always express myself as clearly as I should" that people should not believe everything they read on social media sites. "My view of homosexuality has changed not one iota. I judge not. And my statement equating repeal of Prop 8 with the coming of the End Times was neither literal nor ironic: It was a description of how some folks -- not me -- feel about gay marriage."

The singer continued that while her sexuality "is not at issue" her support has "never wavered" for the gay community. "I'd like to say this was a publicity stunt, but I'm really not that clever, and I'm definitely not that cynical."

In a briefer subsequent statement Shocked said her faith "tells me to do my best to also love everyone" regardless of sexual orientation, religion or political affiliation. "I stand accused of forsaking the LGBT community for a Christianity which is -- hear me now -- anathema to my understanding of faith," she said. "To be clear: I am not now, nor have I ever been, a member of any so-called faith preaching intolerance of anyone."

Shocked concluded the letter saying it might not be "the first nor the last time trouble has come my way" but she would continue to speak to both the gay community and the evangelical community. "Everything else -- facebook, twitter, whatever -- is commentary."

There's no word whether the venues which began cancelling her tour dates in the U.S. this spring following the Sunday night incident will consider booking Shocked after her statements.


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