American female rap artiste, Nicki Minaj has reportedly pulled out of a concert in Saudi Arabia because she says she wants to show support for women’s rights, gay rights and freedom of expression.

Minaj was originally scheduled to headline the concert to be held on July 18 in Saudi Arabia where gender segregation between single men and women is still enforced in many public places. 

 “After careful reflection, I have decided to no longer move forward with my scheduled concert at Jeddah World Fest.

“While I want nothing more than to bring my show to fans in Saudi Arabia, after better educating myself on the issues, I believe it is important for me to make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression,” Minaj said in a statement on Tuesday.

The alcohol and drug-free Jeddah World Fest which in line with Saudi laws is open to people above 16  will take place at the King Abdullah Sports Stadium in the Red Sea city. Other performers include the former One Direction member, Liam Payne and DJ-producer, Steve Aoki.

The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) had last week issued a statement, calling for Minaj and other performers to pull out of the show. On Tuesday, the New York-based organization praised Minaj‘s decision to not perform at the concert.

“This is what leadership looks like. We are grateful to Nicki Minaj for her inspiring and thoughtful decision to reject the Saudi regime’s transparent attempt at using her for a public relations stunt,” Thor Halvorssen, the HRF President said. 

“The July 18 festival in Saudi Arabia still shows Liam Payne as a performer. We hope that he follows Nicki Minaj’s lead.

“Minaj’s moral stance differs from celebrity performers like J-Lo and Mariah Carey, who in the past have chosen to line their pockets with millions of dollars and stand with dictatorial governments as opposed to with oppressed communities and imprisoned human rights activists,” he added.

Over the past several months, the kingdom has seen performances by Carey, Enrique Iglesias, the Black Eyed Peas, Sean Paul, David Guetta and Tiesto, a stark change from when Saudi morality police would raid establishments which played loud music.

Saudi organizers said the Jeddah World Fest will be broadcast globally. The kingdom is also promising quick electronic visas for international visitors who intend to attend the event.