Venus, the winner of Canada’s Drag Race season 4, has posted a heartfelt video apologising to the people of Mexico after realising she had misunderstood an incident over the weekend. The drag star admitted she had made false assumptions about a situation involving local law enforcement in Puerto Vallarta.
Earlier this week, on Tuesday, 22 April, Venus took to social media to clarify that she had not actually been involved in any altercation with police. By Thursday, 24 April, she shared a video offering a sincere apology for the confusion and harm caused.
“Hi, everyone. I owe you an apology,” Venus began. “This apology goes directly to the community here in Puerto Vallarta, to anyone in Mexico, my Mexican followers, to the officers that I had dealt with. And beyond that, I really f*cked up.”
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Venus openly admitted to making serious accusations based on fragmented memories after blacking out, acknowledging that this led to unfairly perpetuating negative stereotypes about safety in Mexico. “That was foolish and extremely ignorant of me. I am deeply sorry for that, and for any harm that I have caused,” she said.
The drag performer further shared that she had important conversations with Mexican drag artists and locals. “I’ve been called out and called in,” Venus noted. “I’m listening. I’m learning. I’m the type of person that I learn from my mistakes; I can guarantee you that.”
Venus reflected on her identity as an Indigenous person and how she should have been more aware of the wider impacts of such assumptions. “I should’ve known the harm that these assumptions have on other Indigenous people in the world, because I know what it [does to] my own community.”
Praising Puerto Vallarta and Mexico as “extremely beautiful,” Venus expressed gratitude for the kindness, vibrancy, and passion of the local people. “I’m extremely privileged to be able to experience this place and their culture. I’m very sorry for my actions, for jumping to conclusions, for being a f*cking idiot.”
Venus concluded her apology by acknowledging that forgiveness was not owed to her but emphasised the sincerity of her words:
“Of course, you do not have to accept my apology, but this is coming from a very raw and real place. I can only promise to do better moving forward. Thank you for listening. I’m sending you all my love. Also, if you want to continue this conversation, I am willing to do so, because I’m listening, and learning, and receptive. My heart is with you.”
The video has received an outpouring of support from fellow Drag Race alumni. Aurora Matrix, the season 4 runner-up, responded with heart emojis. Kerri Colby commented, “Omg Venus I hope you’re doing okay. I love you.”
Jaylene Tyme praised Venus’ accountability, saying, “I’m so glad you are safe. I love you and I’m proud to call you family.” Meanwhile, Kween Kong wrote, “So proud of you for being brave enough to take accountability boo. We are all human, make mistakes and have done things we’re not proud of. Protect your peace and surround yourself with grounded loving. Always here if you need a shoulder. Love you.”
