Photo of The Weeknd performing at 2016 Academy Awards, by Kevin Winter
The Weeknd and Belly scrapped a performance on Wednesday night's edition of Jimmy Kimmel Live after learning Donald Trump would be appearing during the same episode.
Referencing his Muslim faith, Belly said in a statement to the Associated Press he "didn't want to feel like I was a part of a celebration for somebody who has beliefs [the] majority of us don't agree with."
The rapper, who was set to perform "Might Not" with the Weeknd, added: "I'm here on a campaign of positivity and love and to contribute what I can to music. I create songs people go to sleep and wake up to, songs that they fall in love to. For me, being Muslim and being somebody that appreciates my access here in America, I love the fact that I'm able to be here. To play my part in this business is a privilege and a beautiful thing. The fact that I could lose that ability through the actions of someone such as Donald Trump isn't right to me. At all."
Trump, the Republican nominee for president, has drawn criticism over his numerous insults against minorities, women, immigrants, refugees, Muslims, prisoners of war, the disabled and others. He has previously called for a ban on Muslims entering the United States.