Angela Simmons brought a gun-shaped purse to the 2024 BET Awards, drawing backlash from all over the internet.
The 36-year-old of Run-DMC’s Joseph Simmons carried a crystal-covered purse on Sunday.
To make things worse, she held the purse like a real weapon when photographed.
The purse immediately sparked criticism, with some observing that her ex-fiance Sutton Tennyson was killed from gun violence.
Angela Simmons Promptly Apologized
Two days after the BET Awards, Angela Simmons took to Instagram to apologize.
According to People, she “deeply regretted” her choice of bringing the purse to the award show.
“When I chose the purse, I believed it was cute and unique, and I made a poor decision in using it as an accessory to amplify my beauty. I deeply regret that this item which symbolizes a gun, was inappropriate and insensitive, especially given my personal and community experiences with gun violence.”
Angela Simmon’s ex Tennyson was gunned down outside his Atlanta home in 2018 after an argument with another man escalated.
By the time the police arrived, he was already dead.
Simmons added that she understood the pain her choice had caused.
“I understand the pain and hurt this has caused, especially to those who have been directly impacted by gun violence.”
Angela Simmons then said she would like to use her foundation to “reduce gun violence.”
“My work with Erica Ford, a leading gun violence activist, and my own organization that creates programs to reduce gun violence and helps those directly impacted by the epidemic, have always been about making peace a lifestyle.”
Simmons added:
“By carrying this purse, I did not intend to promote gun violence in any way. It was a mistake that does not define who I am or my commitment to ending gun violence.”
Simmons concluded by asked for understanding and forgiveness.
“I ask for your understanding and forgiveness and hope you can accept my sincere apology. While this incident was a misstep, I will not allow it to define my moral compass or my commitment to promoting peace and ending gun violence. Thank you for your continued support in this crucial mission.”
