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MTV EMAs: Janet Jackson delivers powerful speech on equality after barefoot performance

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BILBAO, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 04: Janet Jackson speaks on stage while collecting Global Icon Award during the MTV EMAs 2018 at Bilbao Exhibition Centre on November 4, 2018 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images for MTV)
It was Janets night (Picture: Getty Images)

Janet Jackson delivered a stirring speech on Sunday night as she celebrated her Global Icon win at the MTV EMAs.

The star took to the stage, after being handed the award by Jason Derulo and Camila Cabello and she launched straight into her message.

I feel move to speak for womens voices who have been stifled, she said, as the crowd immediately erupted into cheers.

I am one of those women, women who have been gagged, both literally and emotionally, women who have been abused, women who have been intimidated, women who have lived in fear.

BILBAO, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 04: Janet Jackson speaks on stage while collecting Global Icon Award during the MTV EMAs 2018 at Bilbao Exhibition Centre on November 4, 2018 in Bilbao, Spain. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images for MTV)
Janet took the mic for a powerful speech (Picture: 2018 Getty Images)

I stand with you. You are my sisters.

She then added she hopes a new world is emerging in which gender inequality will no longer be tolerated.

Women, our voices will be heard, we will be heard. When we speak out for justice, she continued. Speak out for the spirit speak out for spirit that crosses all borders, recognises the dignity of all people and affirms the beauty of all faiths.

Janet Jackson performs on stage during the MTV EMA's 2018 at Bilbao Exhibition Centre on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018, in Bilbao, Spain. (Stuart C. Wilson, pool photo via AP)
She earlier took to the stage without shoes (Picture: AP)

Speak out for acts of true charity, small and large, speak out for an all-embracing love because its love that will heal our wounds, to come to one anothers aid, so lets lift our voices, lets start today and let the ever amazing love of god lead the way.

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With all my heart, I think you god, I thank all of my fans.

Fans were picking up what she was putting down, as well, as they reacted on social media to her powerful words, with many saying they felt inspired by her message.

Earlier in the evening she performed the crowd gathered at the Bilbao Exhibition Centre in the Spanish city, alongside other stars such as Little Mix and Nicki Minaj, Panic! At the Disco and Halsey.

More: MTV

The 52-year-old took to the stage to perform a medley of her biggest hits, all without her shoes as she slayed some pretty amazing dance moves.

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While BTS fans gave themselves a pat on the back for helping the seven-piece K-pop group take out the best fans accolade during the celebrations.

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