In Monday's episode of her daytime talk show, Queen Latifah addresses the domestic violence issue that's been on everybody's lips since the full Ray Rice elevator surveillance video was made public. In her final segment, Latifah chats about her old hit "U.N.I.T.Y.," how domestic violence affected her family and why she wishes that this was no longer a topic of conversation.

"It's sad to me that this problem is headline news because some football players are involved, because this is something that's always around," Latifah said. "It's a problem in every part of society. It doesn't matter if you're rich, or whether you're poor. It doesn't matter what your race is. Where you come from, what language you speak. This is a problem for all of us. And it is not a new problem."

"Twenty-one years ago I wrote the song 'U.N.I.T.Y.' about disrespect and violence towards women," she continued. "That entire second verse of that song was written about my cousin, who was in an abusive relationship with her husband, and my brothers and my cousins pretty much had to rescue her from that relationship. But she did get out of that relationship. And so, today I wish I didn't have to talk about that song. I wish the message in that song wasn't even relevant today. But it is."

She added a message to those currently living through a violent situation saying that they are not alone and people want to help. While earlier in the segment she pointed out that this isn't a new issue that's suddenly a problem due to the NFL's involvement, she did acknowledge that this new case is causing more people to talk about it, listen, and reach out for help. 

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, where you can speak anonymously to a victim’s advocate. As Latifah said, "You don't have to be silent, you don't have to stay. You have some options and we're all in this together. So hang in there, stay strong, and I support you."

To watch the entire clip, click here.

BET.com always gives you the latest fashion and beauty trends, tips and news. We are committed to bringing you the best of Black lifestyle and celebrity culture.

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.

(Photo: Cindy Ord/Getty Images)