Global icon Madonna made an appearance at the GRAMMYs on Sunday and was swiftly met with online criticism from some viewers who were focused on her looks. Taking to Instagram, the star shared, “Once again I am caught in the glare of ageism and misogyny that permeates the world we live in. A world that refuses to celebrate women pass the age of 45 and feels the need to punish her If she continues to be strong-willed, hard-working, and adventurous.”

Madonna was introducing Sam Smith and Kim Petras, the first trans woman to perform at the GRAMMYs and win the award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance, and wanted to emphasize the bravery of artists who push boundaries unapologetically. However, instead of focusing on her message, many shared closeups of the star’s face instead, stirring a spectrum of discourse online. Madonna has never apologized for her creative choices or her appearance, and has long been a trailblazer for women in the industry who face these types of prejudices. Despite the criticism faced throughout her career, she remains confident and continues to subvert societal norms, evidenced most recently by her nearly sold-out world tour celebrating 40 years of her career. See her response below.