— -- Madonna's revealing Givenchy dress she wore at Monday's Met Gala in New York City brought a lot of attention from the critics, so the Material Girl fired back Wednesday, explaining that the outfit wasn't just a fashion statement but also a political expression in support of gender equality.

"We have fought and continue to fight for civil rights and gay rights around the world. When it comes to women's rights, we are still in the dark ages," Madonna began in a lengthy Instagram post. "My dress at the Met Ball was a political statement as well as a fashion statement."

The 57-year-old performer, known for her risqué fashion statements, continues, "The fact that people actually believe a woman is not allowed to express her sexuality and be adventurous past a certain age is proof that we still live in an age-ist and sexist society. I have never thought in a limited way and I'm not going to start. We cannot effect change unless we are willing to take risks By being fearless and By taking the road [less] traveled by. [That's] how we change history."

If anyone has an issue with her outfit, she added, it's more on them than her.

"It is simply a reflection of your prejudice. I'm not afraid to pave the way for all the girls behind me?? As Nina Simone once said, the definition of freedom is being fearless. I remain Unapologetic and a Rebel in this life and all the others. Join my fight for Gender. Equality!" she said.

Givenchy creative director Riccardo Tisci also defended Madge's red carpet outfit Wednesday in an Instagram post that declared, "BEST RED CARPET EVER NOT ONLY WITH M THE ICON, BUT ALSO M THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HUMAN AND FRIEND."

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