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Celebrities Pop Culture

Are your favorite celebrities breaking gender norms, or just queerbaiting?

[Image Description: A of Harry Styles from the music video Watermelon Sugar.] via i-D

As gender roles blur, and sexuality being fluid, there have been allegations around some artists queerbaiting.

Queerbaiting can be defined as the practice of implying non-heterosexual relationships or attraction, to engage or lure in an LGBTQ+ audience without ever explicitly showing such relationships or sexual interactions. The term queerbaiting is used to critique the practice of queerbaiting as an attempt to capitalize on and take advantage of the appearance of LGBTQ+ relationships when there is no actual real LGBTQ+ representation.

Queerbaiting can be seen in TV shows where interactions between two same-sex characters are suggestive of sexual attraction or relationship, but the characters are never in such a relationship. This is especially so when their sexuality is not depicted or mentioned. For instance, Tegan and Michaela, in the TV series How To Get Away With Murder. Yes, Tegan is a mentor to Michaela, but why do we get a closeup when Michaela expresses a devasted face when Tegan chooses to spend time with Annalise. It is subtleties like these that insinuates that there is more to the relationship of the two characters.

[Image description: Tegan and Michaela holding hands] Via ABC
[Image description: Tegan and Michaela holding hands] Via ABC
While the Oxford English Dictionary recently recognized the term in March 2021, it has been used in the cultural lexicon for decades. The use of the term queerbaiting dates to the early 1950s, where it was first referred to as the encouragement of anti-LGBTQIA+ hatred. However, since the 2010s, the use and meaning of the term have changed and, is used in reference to opportunistic acts that aim to appeal to LGBTQIA+ audiences. Although the word “queer” has a history of being used as a slur, it is now used in its reclaimed sense, in the context of LGBTQ+ identities. The word queer is used to describe and refer to things involving people whose gender identity or sexual orientation falls outside the heterosexual mainstream.

In June and towards the month of July 2021, accusations of queerbating surfaced in our pop-cultural discourse at many celebrities, such as Madonna, Billie Eilish and repeat offender Harry Styles. The allegations were that non-queer artists were ‘appropriating’ queer culture and aesthetics in efforts to secure the monetary support and the support of LGBTQ+ fans without having to identify themselves outright openly as queer. This portrayal allows them to brush up alongside the seeming edginess of queer identity, without having to pay the price of openly being themselves in a queerphobic society.

In her music video for the song “Lost Cause”, Billie Eilish is having fun and dancing with other women, in a manner that some see as sexually suggestive. When Eilish shared photos from the video with the message “I love girls”, that was read by some as being indicative of a sexual attraction towards women. Critics, including those of the LGBTQ+ community, defended Eilish and rejected the accusation of queerbaiting and, emphasized that no one should be pressured in having to disclose or clarify their sexuality.

 

The central principle of the queerbaiting critique is targeted at celebrities who are often on the fence about announcing their sexuality. Comments that have brought on widespread criticisms of queerbaiting range from Harry Styles who draws on a feminine and playful ambiguous display of himself to, the comparison made between Madonna’s 2003 VMA kiss with Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera and, Rapper Lil Nas X’s performance at the BET Awards in June 2021 where he kissed one of his male back-up dancers. Several cultural moments that were seen as groundbreaking at the time are now being scrutinized, as real queer representation is being shown on screen.

Much of the criticism can be taken from a celebrity’s queerness being valid only if said explicitly in public spaces and interviews, or if represented to expectation. Ambiguity is seen as a wrongful act. In Harry Style’s case, this displayed itself as frustration that he portrays himself to be bisexual and continues to be winked at rather than explicitly proving or declaring that he does have sexual relations with other men. In as much as it may be seen as queerbaiting, we cannot accuse him of it without specifying that he is in fact not queer. Our assumptions about his relationship with queerness are only just a leap in the dark.

It can be said that the argument around queerbaiting, recognizes a material injustice and that many queer people are in a fight for their lives and livelihoods. While the sour double standard of praise is given to stars such as Styles, those who originate this aesthetic are faced with daily violence and exclusion. However, forcing one to out themselves as queer can also be seen as violent as it takes away the choice to be candid about their sexuality from the get-go. So maybe some people would like to have their queer cake and eat it too!

Not allowing others to self-determine their sexuality and even doing so vaguely falsely assumes that the queer identity or is rigid, contained and dictated when it is not.

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The Internet Celebrities Music Pop Culture

Rita Ora is more than a tabloid headline, and it’s time we treat her as such

Rita Ora wears a traditional outfit in honor of Kosovo Independence Day
[Image description: Rita Ora wears a traditional outfit in honor of Kosovo Independence Day] Via Rita Ora

Rita Ora is not just an artist and entertainer. Nor is she just the face of multiple brand campaigns. Yet the media continue to overlook her achievements, and tabloids leave out what’s of actual importance: her career triumphs.

Back in 2018, Rita Ora made Official UK Chart history with the most Top 10 singles for a British female artist, and she wasn’t even born in the UK. In the same year, Rita Ora had a crowd of 300,000 people gathered in Kosovo, celebrating 10 years of independence. That’s more than you will find at any festival main stage! Throughout her career, she has performed for former President Barack Obama, the Vatican, and at the Oscars. Now she’s reached a new milestone: becoming the 11th artist with the most gold-certified songs in the UK. 

Besides her musical success, Rita Ora has been lending her voice to UNICEF since 2013 and due to her work in Kosovo back in 2019, she became an official UNICEF UK Ambassador. Thanks to her speaking up and representing her roots, she has inspired a lot of young people by showing us the importance of using your voice to help others. 


Over the last decade, Rita Ora has built her own brand. From making music, appearing in several movies like Fifty Shades of Grey and Detective Pikachu and TV shows like The Masked Singer UK and the upcoming 10th season of The Voice Australia to launching her own tequila back in 2019, Rita Ora is doing it all.

Today, she is a household name, known for not just her musical talent, but her charming personality and stage presence. Remarkable, right? These are just a few of the many outstanding parts of her overall success story. Yet, media outlets still reduce Rita Ora to a headline that has less to do with her entertainment industry success and more to do with her current relationship status, bikini pictures, and social media presence.

While each of these accomplishments is something you can easily discover after a simple Google search, there is so much you will not see by just looking at what certain media outlets cover. There is more to a woman’s name than what you can read between the lines of a news article. It is neither right nor fair to base someone’s current success and status on past relationships alone, or to define a woman by her dating life.

Women have proven to be successful forces in all kinds of industries, and it is time to not just see and recognize that but to respect and value women’s contributions. What a woman brings to the table has no connection to a male companion. She embodies her own hard work and determination. 

Described by fans as a huge inspiration, Rita Ora has positively influenced so many from all around the globe. While her music has reached millions of people, what truly stands out is the powerful force behind her art. It is the artist behind the art who gives the art its meaning. Personally, Rita Ora’s music has created a safe, therapeutic space, a place of comfort.

Artists tell stories through music. They put real emotions and truth between the lines of their poetic work, and we connect to it. Rita’s music has been my heart’s band-aid and has turned my light back on many times. Even Prince once said: “Rita is a force of nature, that girl—the way she walks into a room. She’s got it.” I couldn’t agree more. Her energy is electrifying and she has made being confident look so effortless and fun.

Following someone’s journey for years goes beyond just listening to their music. Just looking at how far Rita Ora has come and knowing how hard she has worked to make a name for herself and have her voice heard, makes me proud. Watching and learning from her, I have found the courage to fight for my own career and dreams. Today, I am more aware of the power I have and what I can do with it because she showed me how.  

This is why I strongly believe that the media conversation around Rita Ora should be about the empire she has built, rather than the irrelevant tabloid headlines that just want to financially profit from her name. It is disappointing that there are people out there who believe and trust the media and cannot do their own research to see the amazing person who has made such a huge impact on so many people. Of course, this goes beyond the entertainment industry. Think about how in five to 10 years, young women will be confident enough to pursue their own careers because they saw someone like Rita Ora succeed despite so many obstacles and rejections.

The media has to start thinking about the effects their journalistic abuse towards women has and how it constantly puts their mental health at risk. The media must start respecting women for their hard work, for what they truly stand for and represent. Rita Ora is someone who’s surely paving the way for the future generation of artists.

With everything she does, she is opening doors for the women of tomorrow and leading by example when it comes to juggling it all so remarkably. Let me remind you that Rita Ora is not just an artist and how she does it all is a question I have asked myself for many years. She doesn’t stop working hard, always trying to reach higher stars. 

Rita has touched the hearts of those who have been positively influenced by her tremendous light and has made a huge impact on those who have crossed her path. She treats her fans like family, appreciates everyone who has shown support throughout the years, and the best part is she never forgets a face. She helped so many find the strength within themselves and has given me friendships I will cherish for a lifetime. It is not something to take for granted. 



Michelle Obama once said, “Success isn’t about how much money you make; it’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.” I can proudly confirm that Rita Ora has made a difference by brightening up my life. Her impact and legacy surely are legitimate reasons why the media’s reporting on well-known women should be more respectful. This is not only necessary to protect their mental health but to assure future generations can evolve and succeed in the entertainment industry. 

As you can see, Rita is an empowering force of nature you can’t get rid of. And the Ora Wave is one you should catch if you haven’t already. 

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K-pop Music Pop Culture

Mirani returns with her single “Daisy” and surprises fans with a new sound

Photograph of AREA artist Mirani.
[Image description: Photograph of AREA artist Mirani.] Via Mirani.

Just as spring arrived this year, hip-hop artist Mirani gave fans a fresh single, “Daisy,” to mark the start of a new season in her career.

Though softer in sound and slower in pace than her previous singles, “Daisy” continues to showcase Mirani’s ability to pen thoughtful lyrics with roots deep in meaning and metaphor. Spring is often considered a welcome reprieve from the dark days of winter. While “Daisy” does capture this sentiment, Mirani’s lyrics also include moments in which she questions if she’s deserving of the relief spring can provide.

“Spring has been a complicated symbol for me to deal with, but I think I finally overcame this fear,” Mirani said in an exclusive interview with The Tempest.


Mirani noted she typically finds inspiration for her music in movies and TV dramas. “Writing down these emotions [felt by the characters] helps me come up with my song lyrics,” she shared. However, the emotional journey in “Daisy” is more personal. In fact, the lyrics explore a moment Mirani experienced while on the set for an advertisement. One of the staff presented her with a “beautiful flower,” which she felt she hadn’t earned yet since she had only just finished filming Show Me The Money 9.

“I felt really awkward about the situation. I found myself asking, from the force of habit, ‘Do I deserve this flower?’” Mirani recalled. “Then I realized I’m not really used to these good and ‘fragrant’ things yet, and I tried to express this thought in the song.”

For those of us trying to turn our dreams into a reality, Mirani’s experience is incredibly relatable. It’s easy to feel imposter syndrome once we start to catch even a whiff of success. It’s also easy to compare ourselves to others, to be “jealous of the flowers blooming” and to wish “spring would hurry and pass.” But just like Mirani realizes in “Daisy,” it’s okay to acknowledge when our spring has come.

I asked Mirani if she had any words of encouragement for those of us pursuing our dreams, especially those who are following in her footsteps in the music industry. She said: “I know how hard it is to create something. I believe you are the best and doing just fine no matter what, so keep going. Rooting for you!”

While Mirani’s lyrics are personal to her experience, she wanted the music video to be applicable to anyone. She worked with the director to add more fun into each shot to keep viewers curious and leave the meaning up to interpretation.

“I wanted people to watch it again and see many different factors,” Mirani told me. “I think the outcome turned out great.”

“Daisy” also offered Mirani the opportunity to work with pH-1 again. “I think my voice matches great with pH-1’s voice tone, so I was excited to collaborate with [him] once again,” she said. The two first worked together on Show Me The Money 9, creating hits like “Achoo” and “VVS,” which both peaked in the top five of the Gaon Digital Chart. “VVS” also won Hip-Hop Track of the Year at the 2021 Korean Hip-Hop Awards. A month before her latest single dropped, Mirani signed with AREA, a new label by GroovyRoom in partnership with Jay Park’s H1GHER MUSIC—an exciting continuation of her work with the producer duo that she first started on Show Me The Money 9.

When I asked why she wanted to become an artist, Mirani revealed it was her brother who first introduced her to hip-hop music. She then went on to join a hip-hop circle in college, where she discovered her passion for performing. “I really enjoyed the first moment on the stage, and I decided to be a rapper since then.” Fast forward to April of 2020, Mirani debuted independently with her single “Detective,” joining a growing number of women hip-hop artists and rappers in South Korea.

“I know there aren’t that many recognized female rappers within the scene. And I’ve been deeply thinking about how I can also be part of those influential female rappers,” Mirani expressed to me.


One way Mirani is hoping to add to the genre is by experimenting with her own sound and lyrics. “I’m thinking of working on more diverse genres and themes,” she revealed. Whether this is a hint for a possible upcoming album or her music in general, she wouldn’t say. She did, however, confirm, “This is just the beginning for me.”

This might be just the beginning for Mirani, but with each single, she’s proven to be a fresh, new voice worth keeping an ear out for. Her catchy melodies and contemplative lyrics define her style as simply her own, with “Daisy” adding another layer. As she continues to play with her sound, I can’t wait to see what she puts out next.

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Celebrities Movies Pop Culture

Here’s everything you missed from the Oscars 2021 gala

[Image Description: Oscar winning actress and director Rehina King on stage presenting at the 93rd Academy Awards.] via ABC News.
[Image Description: Oscar winning actress and director Rehina King on stage presenting at the 93rd Academy Awards.] via ABC News.

Did you miss this year’s Oscars? Nothing to fear! We have summed up all the best moments.

 The Academy Awards are usually held in the Dolby Theatre and seat almost 3400 attendees. The event is filled with a jam-packed program that includes star-studded skits and sketches, epic montages, and elaborate in-person musical performances – all with a comedian serving as host. This year’s affair, held on Sunday 25 April 2021 was noticeably more intimate.

For the 2021 gala, all of the theatrics were swapped out for a more subdued evening. Held at the Union Station, the 170 attendees were seated around tables, in the vein of the first few Oscar ceremonies. Musical performances were recorded and aired before the telecast. Skits were paired down to Lil Rel Howery quizzing Andra Day, Daniel Kaluuya, and Glenn Close, who showed off her music knowledge and dance skills. There was no host for the third time in a row, but celebrity presenters galore with Oscar-winning actress and director Regina King kicking off the evening that proved just as historic as the times it was held in.

Here is a list of our breakthroughs and firsts of the night:

1. Daniel Kaluuya makes Britain and Uganda Proud

Oscar winner, Daniel Kaluuya
[Image Description: Daniel Kaluuya poses backstage after his historic Oscar win.] Via The Academy.
As an awards season favorite winning Golden Globe, SAG, and BAFTA awards, it was no surprise when Daniel Kaluuya took home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at this year’s Academy Awards. His performance as Fred Hampton, deputy chairman of the Black Panther Party was a standout and his acceptance speech proved to be just as memorable.

In an embarrassing yet hilarious moment, he excitedly expressed his appreciation for life and commented, “My mum and my dad… they had sex and now I’m here!” Before that, he made sure to thank “family, friends and everyone I love from Londontown to Kampala” as he became the first Black British actor and the first actor of Ugandan descent to win an Oscar.

2. Best Actor category was the last award presented

This year's Best Actor nominees
[Image Description: The nominees in the Best Actor category at this year’s Academy Awards. From left to right: Riz Ahmed, Steven Yeun, Sir Anthony Hopkins, Gary Oldman and Chadwick Boseman.] Via Variety.
The Best Picture category is often the pièce de résistance of the night and the last award presented. In a rare turn of events and for the first time, the Best Actor category was the last award presented of the evening.

This definitely fueled rumors that the Academy was going to posthumously honor Chadwick Boseman for his final performance in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. Unfortunately, it was not meant to be for the actor, with the honor of going to Sir Anthony Hopkins for his role in The Father.

3. Honoring the elders

Oscar-winning costume designer, Ann Roth, at work on the set of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom
[Image Description: Oscar-winning costume designer Ann Roth, adjusting actress Taylour Paige on the set of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom] Via IMDB.
As previously mentioned Sir Anthon Hopkins won the Best Actor statue and became the oldest person to win in the Best Actor category at 83 years old. Proving age is just a number, Ann Roth tied in becoming the oldest woman to win an Oscar at the age of 89 for her costume design work in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.

4. South Africa’s first documentary win

The poster to My Octopus Teacher available on Netflix
[Image Description: Poster of My Octopus Teacher.] Via Netflix.
After winning a slew of awards during award season, My Octopus Teacher was able to wrap its tentacles around the Best Documentary Feature Oscar at the 93rd Academy Awards. In doing so, My Octopus Teacher became the first South African nature documentary to become a Netflix Original and to win an Oscar.

5. South Korea makes history again

Best Supporting Actress winner Yuh-Jung Youn
[Image Description: Yuh-Jung Youn speaking as she accepted her Oscar for Best Supporting Actress..] Via E!
Continuing South Korea’s winning streak after Parasite, Youn Yuh-Jung became the first Korean actor to win an Oscar for her portrayal as the matriarch in one of the 2020s most talked about films, Minari. Youn Yuh-Jung won in the Best Supporting Actress category.

6. First woman of color to win Best Director

Chloe Zhao is the first woman of color to win for Best Director
[Image Description: Director Chloe Zhao accepting the Best Director Oscar for her work on Nomadland.] Via the Academy.
Chloe Zhao graciously accepted the award for Best Director for Nomadland and became the second woman to win the award after Katheryn Bigelow in 2009. She also became the first woman of color and the first Asian, specifically, Chinese woman to win in that category.

7. First time is H.E.R. lucky charm

Best Original Song winner H.E.R.
[Image Description: H.E.R.’s holding her Oscar.] Via Variety.
R&B singer H.E.R. is used to receiving music awards and parlayed that into film when she was not only nominated but won for Best Original Song on the first try. She won for the anthem, Fight for You, featured in the film, Judas and The Black Messiah. This victory also made her first black woman win in this category since Irene Cara in 1983.



8. Black women finally honored in makeup and hair

The first black women to win an Oscar for Best Hair and Makeup
[Image Description: Mia Neal (left), Jamika Wilson (center), and Sergio Lopez-Riviera (right) celebrating their historic win.] Via Variety.
Mia Neal and Jamika Wilson made history on Sunday night after becoming the first black women to receive a nomination and subsequent win in the Best Hair and Makeup category. Their amazing work alongside Sergio Lopez Riviera can be seen in Viola Davis’ transformation in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.

9. First animated film to feature a Black character in the lead.

The offical poster for Pixar's laestest animated film, Soul
[Image Description: Poster for Pixar’s ‘Soul’.] Via IMDB.
“It’s been way too long, and I don’t know that we really have a good answer. We’re always looking to reflect as much of the world out there as we can, and we’re happy that it’s finally happened — that we are representing a part of the population that just hasn’t had as much voice in our films up to now.” director Pete Docter said of the why it took so long for Pixar to have a film with a black lead character.

The film is Soul and it follows the journey of Joe Gardner (voiced by Jamie Foxx), a music teacher who after an accident reverts back to his soul state. Proving that representation is necessary, the film went on to win Best Animated Feature.

10. All that glitters is not gold but Emerald

Director, writer, actress and producer Emerald Fennell wins at the Oscars
[Image Description: Triple Oscar nominee, Emerald Fennell celebrating her first Oscar win for Best Orignal Screenplay.] Via The Academy.

Having appeared on Call The Midwife and the latest season of The Crown, it is Emerald Fennell’s behind-the-scenes work that has garnered all the Academy’s attention.

Fennell’s feature film debut, Promising Young Woman, showcased Fennell’s talent as she wrote, produced, directed, and even made a cameo in the film. She was nominated in three categories, Best Picture (as a producer), Best Director (becoming the first British woman to receive the recognition), and Best Original Screenplay, which she won. She became the first woman to win in that category since 2008.

While a lot of firsts occurred at the 93rd Academy Awards, these firsts will continue to be seen as groundbreaking until the under-represented are provided equity, in front of and behind the cameras. There is still more ground to be broken in terms of diversity and inclusivity, not only in film but within the academy. Let’s hope that the Academy can continue this upward trajectory in years to come!

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Celebrities Pop Culture

Joss Whedon has been accused of abusive behavior yet again

Joss Whedon speaking at the 2015 San Diego Comic Con International in San Diego, California.
[Image Description: Joss Whedon speaking at the 2015 San Diego Comic Con International in San Diego, California.] Via Gage Skidmore by Flickr.

Followed by Ray Fisher’s allegations of abuse of power and misconduct by Joss Whedon, former Buffy the Vampire Slayer stars have come forward with their own experiences of alleged abuse by Joss Whedon. Much of these allegations repeat what others who have worked with Whedon have claimed over the years.

Earlier in July 2020, actor Ray Fisher reported allegations of abuse of power by Joss Whedon on the set of Justice League. He tweeted that Whedon’s behavior on the set was “gross, abusive, unprofessional, and completely unacceptable.” These allegations were followed by a subsequent internal investigation launched by WarnerMedia. The statement from the company provided little explanation of the course of action it would pursue. However, Fisher has since refused to appear in any DC films.

On Wednesday 10th February, Charisma Carpenter, who played Cordelia on Buffy, accused Whedon of abusing his power.

On Wednesday 10th February, Charisma Carpenter, who played Cordelia on Buffy, accused Whedon of abusing his power. Carpenter has previously claimed that she was “afraid” to go public with her allegations, as it could considerably impact her career. However, in the wake of the MeToo movement and increased awareness and advocacy for women’s rights, she admitted she feels much more confident today coming forward with these allegations. Carpenter recalls being body-shamed by Whedon during her pregnancy and subsequently dropping out of the show. 

Carpenter was motivated to come forward in solidarity with Ray Fisher’s allegations against Whedon that made rounds in the news last summer. Amber Benson who played Tara on Buffy also issued a note of support for Carpenter and backed up Carpenter’s claims regarding Whedon’s behavior. In a tweet, she wrote:

Even Sarah Michelle Geller who played the titular character Buffy Summers came forward in support of her co-stars. In an Instagram post, she stated that while she is proud to be associated with Buffy Summers, she does not want to be associated with Joss Whedon forever. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sarah Michelle (@sarahmgellar)

Geller’s partner Freddie Prinze Jr. said in 2003 that his wife has had to deal with a lot of nonsense behind the scenes on the show. We know that Whedon has publicly mocked Geller’s work in the past. He called her work in Cruel Intentions “a porny”, which Geller claimed to be “incredibly hurtful” to her. 

Michelle Trachtenburg, who played Buffy’s younger sister on the show, also asserted that Whedon did not display “appropriate behavior” around her as a teenager. However, Trachtenburg did not provide a detailed account of Whedon’s behavior. However, she did claim that there was a rule saying that Whedon “was not allowed in a room alone with Michelle again”.

Allegations about Whedon’s behavior have been surfacing for a while. The global successes of Marvel’s The Avengers and Avengers: Age of Ultron directed by Whedon resulted in him being brought to direct competitor DC’s Justice League. It was a challenging production that was made worse by Whedon’s “gross, abusive, unprofessional, and completely unacceptable” behavior according to Fisher.

Whedon has come under great scrutiny in recent years due to allegations of misconduct. He has had to leave several projects such as the Batgirl movie for Warner Bros., Pippa Smith: Grown-Up Detective for Freeform, and most recently The Nevers for HBO Max.

Whedon has yet to respond to the latest allegations made against him and his reps have refused to comment. However, what these recent allegations clarify is that toxic and abusive behavior by those who hold significant power is more prevalent than we imagine.

In the past, young actors were regularly villainized, it was Geller who bore the brunt of fan backlash, whilst Whedon always got a free pass and his career continued to grow. Whedon received praise and appreciation amongst fan circles for interacting with fans regularly through Buffy message boards. On the other hand, Geller was demonized for not accrediting Whedon and all that he did for her career.



In an increasingly evolving cultural climate, many people have come to realize that abusive behavior by those in positions of dominance is unacceptable. Those exploiting their power need to be held accountable. Despite being the victim, it took Carpenter almost a decade to gain the courage to finally share her story.

Abusers can have any gender, but most often in history, it’s been proven to be men who walk away with no consequences. We need to overcome the misogynistic patterns. Instead of being blindsided by the fame and praise of men in positions of power, we need to at the very least hear out the victims and recognize the existence of a pattern. Without this, we continue to fail the future generation of actors and actresses. 

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The Breakdown Race Inequality

Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation: Know the difference

[Image Description: A white woman poses to the camera, she is wearing a traditional Indian dress, a bindi and jewelry] Via Pixabay
[Image Description: A white woman poses to the camera, she is wearing a traditional Indian dress, a bindi and jewelry] Via Pixabay

The Breakdown is a Tempest exclusive series that attempts to tackle issues, concepts, terms, and histories that are relevant and intrinsic to conversations about social justice. This is our version of a 101 on Social Justice, with a grassroot level approach that hopes to simplify and make political and cultural conversations accessible in a global level.

The debate around cultural appropriation versus cultural appreciation has existed for a while. However, it gained significant momentum recently after the re-emergence of the Black Lives Matter movement after criticism against how Black culture has been heavily appropriated in pop culture and fast fashion. Since May a number of celebrities, influencers, and brands have been called out for cultural appropriation on mass media. One such example is Reformation – a sustainable clothing brand – who was called out for the lack of Black models on their Instagram feed. The brand has since attempted to diversify its feed. On the other hand, rapper Bhad Bhabie came under fire for comparing herself to Tarzan and had to defend herself against accusations of appropriating Black culture.  

But there’s always a question when you see people donned up in clothes, ornaments, or participating in things that are not part of their culture. Are they appropriating another culture or is it appreciation? 

The academic definition of cultural appropriation is “taking over of creative or artistic forms, themes, or practices by one cultural group from another. It is in general used to describe Western appropriations of non‐Western or non‐white forms, and carries connotations of exploitation and dominance.” Appropriation involves enacting on certain parts of a culture such as clothing or hairstyle without a full understanding of the culture and reinforcing stereotypes or holding prejudices against its people. It can also involve not crediting the culture itself or its creators.

An example of cultural appropriation could be wearing a bindi. Buying a bindi from a tourist shop or a company that just produces the item does not give you the full perspective of the culture. In fact, in some ways, it creates a false perspective that it is just merely a decorative ornament. Bindi symbolizes different aspects of the Hindu culture and Indian women who wear it, do so with significance to their culture. 

Wearing a bindi or another piece representing a specific culture might get you positive attention or appreciation. However, when someone from the same culture wears an item from their culture but gets more negative remarks than positive is where it becomes problematic. For instance, wearing a ‘hipster’ headdress is not okay. The warbonnet headdress perpetuated by Hollywood projects the view that all Native American’s have the same culture. There are, however, approximately 500+ distinct tribes with their own cultures. Warbonnets or feather headdresses are not a fashion choice but a symbol of respect and honor that needs to be earned. 

People are straight-up told that their cultural practices are old-fashioned or conservative. Often times, they may be told to conform to the social norms, or worst case, they may become a target for hate crimes. Remember, when Zac Efron wore dreadlocks “just for fun”? To which, he was reminded that Black people get turned down on job interviews for wearing locs and braids. 

Cultural appreciation, on the other hand, involves appreciating and taking an interest to understand another culture. This involves sharing knowledge with permission and credit those who belong to that culture. For instance, when you purchase an item you buy it directly from the creators. You understand how the item is intended to be used and learn the value it holds in the culture.

Once, a friend of mine was invited to attend a sermon at the mosque. Despite being agnostic herself, she explained to me that she understands the significance of wearing a headscarf to the mosque and respects it. Therefore, she intended on bringing a headscarf to the mosque and cover her hair to show respect during the sermon.

Cultural appreciation involves paying respect to the artists and creators and understanding the origins of a culture. Remember, 2015 Met Gala’s high-risk ‘China through the looking glass’ theme? Rihanna was one of the few attendees of the gala who wore a dress that was crafted by an esteemed Chinese designer. It is not the perfect contextualization but at least a more suitable one. 

I cannot stress enough how important it is to know the difference between cultural appropriation and cultural appreciation. Romanticizing and sexualizing certain cultural aspects whilst rejecting other aspects that do not interest you trivializes the culture. Appropriation perpetuates stereotypes and racism. It obstructs the views and voices of those who belong to the culture giving it to those who have appropriated it. 

With Halloween just around the corner, here is a quick reminder that culturally appropriated costumes are offensive and should not be worn. Wearing costumes that are cultural stereotypes literally reduces an entire culture and its people to a costume. Need I remind you of Scott Disick’s costume of a ‘Sheikh’ or Julianna Hough who darkened her face to portray a character from Orange Is the New Black. A good idea is to do some research and find out whether or not your costume is racist. Bear in mind though, if you need to do a lot of explaining as to why your costume is not racist, then it is a sign that you should reconsider. (Here is a handy guide of “costumes” you should NOT be wearing)

The bottom line here is that there is a fine line between appropriation and appreciation. We live in an increasingly globalized world and it is important to be mindful of our words and actions. Certain behaviors are never appreciative and should be avoided. It is a learning process but one that is not too difficult. Keep educating yourself because, at the end of the day, we all learn and grow everyday.

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Categories
Celebrities Pop Culture

25 of the most iconic celebrity Halloween costumes of all time

[Image description: Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka dressed up as the Olsen twins, Rita Ora as Post Malone, Heidi Klum as Fiona from Shrek, Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen as Avocado Toast, and Josh Duhammel and Fergie as Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette.]
[Image description: Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka dressed up as the Olsen twins, Rita Ora as Post Malone, Heidi Klum as Fiona from Shrek, Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen as Avocado Toast, and Josh Duhammel and Fergie as Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette.]

In the mood for more spooky stories? Check out our Halloween series!

Halloween is around the corner and there’s usually one place most of us turn to for inspiration, Hollywood. The amazing transformations, the shocking outfits, the humorous get-ups, it’s all there and it’s a sight to see.

Here’s a list of some of the most iconic celebrity costumes of all time.

1. The Hallow-Queen

Heidi Klum as an old lady with white hair and prosthetic makeup.
Heidi Klum as an old lady with white hair and prosthetic makeup.

No one does Halloween better than Heidi Klum, and this disguise was probably one of her most iconic.

2. The funny punny couple

Sarah Hyland and Wells Adam as 'Taco Belle', with Wells dressed as Belle from Beauty and the Beast and Sarah as a taco.
Sarah Hyland and Wells Adam as ‘Taco Belle’, with Wells dressed as Belle from Beauty and the Beast and Sarah as a taco.

Sarah Hyland and Wells Adams as “Taco Belle”. Love a good pun on Halloween and these two are especially cute.



 

3. Pouty perfection.

Heidi Klum as Jessica Rabbit, with bright red hair, a voluptuous red dress and prosthetic makeup.
Heidi Klum as Jessica Rabbit, with bright red hair, a voluptuous red dress and prosthetic makeup.

Heidi Klum as Jessica Rabbit was such an iconic costume. Not only did she spend hours getting into the look, she pulled it off to perfection!

4. Barbie Bey

Beyonce as Barbie. She's wearing a black and white bathing suit in pink Barbie packaging, posing as the doll still in the box.
Beyonce as Barbie. She’s wearing a black and white bathing suit in pink Barbie packaging, posing as the doll still in the box.

Beyonce as Barbie was such a sight for sore eyes. To top it off, she looked absolutely gorgeous.

5. Go as a snack

Katy Petty looking funny, dressed as an orange Cheeto. She's wearing head-to-toe orange and holding a bag of Cheetos.
Katy Petty looking funny, dressed as an orange Cheeto. She’s wearing head-to-toe orange and holding a bag of Cheetos.

Katy Perry as a Cheeto isn’t something I’ll forget anytime soon. I mean, how creative is this costume?

6. The Troll family

Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel with their daughter transformed into Branch, Poppy and Lil’ Branch from the Trolls. Justin is all blue in the leafy vest, matching his daughter, while Jessica is all pink wearing a teal dress and pink Troll hair.
Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel with their daughter transformed into Branch, Poppy and Lil’ Branch from the Trolls. Justin is all blue in the leafy vest, matching his daughter, while Jessica is all pink wearing a teal dress and pink Troll hair.

It was awesome to see Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel with their daughter as Branch, Poppy and Lil’ Branch from the Trolls. Especially since Justin is also the voice of Branch!

7. The 90s are back

Jessica Alba and Kelly Sawyer dressed as Romy and Michele from the movie with the same title. They're in shimmery blue and pink outfits respectively, with golden platform heels and big blond hair. Very 90s outfits, just like the movie.
Jessica Alba and Kelly Sawyer dressed as Romy and Michele from the movie with the same title. They’re in shimmery blue and pink outfits respectively, with golden platform heels and big blond hair. Very 90s outfits, just like the movie.

Jessica Alba and Kelly Sawyer as Romy and Michele just brought back the 90s while making this an awesome costume for besties.

8. A yum bun in the oven

Liv Tyler, looking cute, dressed as a stove with a bun in the oven, because she was pregnant during this Halloween.
Liv Tyler, looking cute, dressed as a stove with a bun in the oven, because she was pregnant during this Halloween.

This iconic costume by Liv Tyler back when she was pregnant with her son is such an iconic costume for any mom-to-be!

9. I’m a star

Lance Bass dressed in denim jeans and jacket, as himself during his N'Sync days. He has a #TBT poster pinned to his jacket, as a tongue in cheek reference to his costume.
Lance Bass dressed in denim jeans and jacket, as himself during his N’Sync days. He has a #TBT poster pinned to his jacket, as a tongue in cheek reference to his costume.

Lance Bass as himself was hilarious yet so on-point. Why go as anything else if you’re already famous, right?

 

10. Such a treat.

Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen, the cute couple, are dressed as Avocado Toast. Gisele is the toast wearing a picture of one on her shoulder, as Tom stands behind her dressed as a giant avocado.
Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen, the cute couple, are dressed as Avocado Toast. Gisele is the toast wearing a picture of one on her shoulder, as Tom stands behind her dressed as a giant avocado.

The cute couple, Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen, as Avocado Toast was such a fun twist on costumes.

11. Oh no Anna!

Kirsten Bell is dressed as Elsa in a blue Frozen gown, with a crown. She has a sardonic expression on her face as she is actually the voice of Anna in the movie.
Kirsten Bell is dressed as Elsa in a blue Frozen gown, with a crown. She has a sardonic expression on her face as she is actually the voice of Anna in the movie.

Kristen Bell as Elsa was hilarious just because she’s actually the voice of Anna in the film. The things we do for our kids, right?

12. Modern Markle

Eric Stonestreet dressed up as Meghan Markle is worth a double take! He's wearing a blush pink skirt suit with a wide brimmed pink hat, and a dark-haired wig.
Eric Stonestreet dressed up as Meghan Markle is worth a double take! He’s wearing a blush pink skirt suit with a wide brimmed pink hat, and a dark-haired wig.

Eric Stonestreet as Meghan Markle is everything. I love him in any role, but this costume was a clear winner.

13. You’ve got good jeans

Meredith Vieira, Savannah Guthrie, and Jenna Bush Hager are dressed as 'Mom Jeans'. The Today's hosts are wearing actual mom jeans, matching white sneakers and posing coyly with their derrières sticking out.
Meredith Vieira, Savannah Guthrie, and Jenna Bush Hager are dressed as ‘Mom Jeans’. The Today’s hosts are wearing actual mom jeans, matching white sneakers and posing coyly with their derrières sticking out.

Meredith Vieira, Savannah Guthrie, and Jenna Bush Hager as Mom Jeans was such a tongue-in-cheek costume. The Today’s hosts really nailed the look.

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14. Double trouble

Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka dressed up as the Olsen twins, with all-black outfits, long blond wigs, pouty makeup and cigarettes in hand.
Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka dressed up as the Olsen twins, with all-black outfits, long blond wigs, pouty makeup and cigarettes in hand.

Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka as the Olsen twins is a look I won’t forget anytime soon.

15. Whatever!

Lupita Nyong'o dressed up as Dion from Clueless. she's wearing the iconic black and white tartan mini skirt and jacket set, with a red cardigan over a white t-shirt. Her hair is braided and she's wear Dion's signature nose ring and black and white hat, as she pretends to talk on a mobile handset from the 90s.
Lupita Nyong’o dressed up as Dion from Clueless. she’s wearing the iconic black and white tartan mini skirt and jacket set, with a red cardigan over a white t-shirt. Her hair is braided and she’s wear Dion’s signature nose ring and black and white hat, as she pretends to talk on a mobile handset from the 90s.

Lupita Nyong’o as Dion from Clueless was such a simple yet iconic look. I mean, who doesn’t love that movie?

16. Klum again.

Heidi Klum transformed into Fiona from Shrek, wearing the velvet gown, red wig, little tiara and the green full body green prosthetic makeup.
Heidi Klum transformed into Fiona from Shrek, wearing the velvet gown, red wig, little tiara, and the green full body green prosthetic makeup.

Heidi Klum as Fiona from Shrek was the stuff of hours of makeup and so much creativity.

17. Rita who?

Rita Ora transformed into Post Malone with his signature tattoos, curly hair and full beard. she's wearing a denim embellished jacket over a yellow shirt, cigarette and beer in hand. It is almost impossible to tell that it's Rita under the get-up.
Rita Ora transformed into Post Malone with his signature tattoos, curly hair and full beard. she’s wearing a denim embellished jacket over a yellow shirt, cigarette and beer in hand. It is almost impossible to tell that it’s Rita under the get-up.

Rita Ora transformed into Post Malone and almost impossible to recognize! Now that’s a great look.

18. Absolutely heavenly

Michael Kors dressed up as the The Garden of Eden, wearing a suit with apples and leaves on it, a snake around his neck, a red mask with horns, while holding an apple.
Michael Kors dressed up as the The Garden of Eden, wearing a suit with apples and leaves on it, a snake around his neck, a red mask with horns, while holding an apple.

Michael Kors was amazing as The Garden of Eden. Who would’ve thought this would have made such an epic costume?

19. Costume as art

Natalia Vodianova as a Jeff Koons balloon animal, was unique and beautiful. She's wearing a red outfit made up of baubles, headgear with the same, and green leather knee-high boots to complete the look.
Natalia Vodianova as a Jeff Koons balloon animal, was unique and beautiful. She’s wearing a red outfit made up of massive baubles, headgear with the same, and green leather knee-high boots to complete the look.

Natalia Vodianova as a Jeff Koons balloon animal is the stuff of artsy dreams. So iconic!

20. Mr. and Mrs. President

Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry dressed up Bill and Hillary Clinton. The prosthetic makeup completely transformed their faces and Orlando is wearing a grey suit, while Katy is wearing Hillary's iconic red suit with short blond hair.
Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry dressed up Bill and Hillary Clinton. The prosthetic makeup completely transformed their faces and Orlando is wearing a grey suit, while Katy is wearing Hillary’s iconic red suit with short blond hair.

Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry as Bill and Hillary Clinton was scary and fascinating all in one.

21. Channeling Chanel

Josh Duhammel and Fergie as Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette was beautiful! He's wearing Karl's iconic white wig, black suit, with a fan in one hand. Fergie is in all white, with cat ears, a metallic white wig and a megaphone in one hand.
Josh Duhammel and Fergie as Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette was beautiful! He’s wearing Karl’s iconic white wig, black suit, with a fan in one hand. Fergie is in all white, with cat ears, a metallic white wig and a megaphone in one hand.

Josh Duhammel and Fergie as Karl Lagerfeld and Choupette is just so creative and completely out of the box.

22. Jackson 2

Beyoncé and Blue Ivy dressed up Janet and Michael Jackson in their most iconic outfits. Beyonce is in all black with a baseball cap as she kisses Blue Ivy, who is dressed in MJ's red jacket, black fedora, silver socks and a microphone in hand.
Beyoncé and Blue Ivy dressed up Janet and Michael Jackson in their most iconic outfits. Beyonce is in all black with a baseball cap as she kisses Blue Ivy, who is dressed in MJ’s red jacket, black fedora, silver socks and a microphone in hand.

Beyoncé and Blue Ivy as Janet and Michael Jackson created such a cute mom-son look.


23. Girl you’ll be in costume soon

Carmen Kass as Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction, wearing the iconic blunt cut black wig, open white button-down shirt with the black bra showing, the black mini with black tights pantyhose and heels. She had a cigarette in her hand and the signature nose bleed as in the movie.
Carmen Kass as Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction, wearing the iconic blunt cut black wig, open white button-down shirt with the black bra showing, the black mini with black tights pantyhose and heels. She had a cigarette in her hand and the signature nose bleed as in the movie.

Carmen Kass as Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction. This costume is so easy to do but so iconic.

24. Old school

Cher as Cleopatra was a vision. She wore the elaborate glittering headdress, the sequinned harem pants and matching crop top.
Cher as Cleopatra was a vision. She wore the elaborate glittering headdress, the sequinned harem pants and matching crop top.

Cher as Cleopatra in 1988 will forever be one of my favorite looks.

25. What a transformation!

Heidi Klum as a multicolored butterfly was a work of art. She's wear prosthetic makeup, with bug eyes, giant translucent wings and a colorful bodysuit.
Heidi Klum as a multicolored butterfly was a work of art. She’s wear prosthetic makeup, with bug eyes, giant translucent wings and a colorful bodysuit.

And lastly, Heidi Klum as a butterfly. Just look at the work that has gone into this costume. She really is the queen of Halloween.

No one does Halloween better than the celebs right? From the transformational makeup to the tongue-in-cheek, Hollywood knows how to up the game, every single year. So with just a few days left for Halloween, do you think this year will be as interesting? I’m thinking there will be tons of quarantine looks, so let’s see what Tinseltown serves up on the 31st.

Still unsure of what to wear yourself to your Zoom party yourself? Check out some fantastic ideas here, some more for history nerds, and some not-so-fantastic ideas to avoid here.

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Categories
History History of Fashion Ancient Practices

The evolution of Halloween costumes: how did we go from eerie spirits to Wonder Woman?

[Image Description: A woman is dressed as a witch, wearing a black pointed hat. She is screaming and holding a pumpkin, symbolic of Halloween. It is dark.] via Unsplash

In the spirit for more spooky stories? Check out our Halloween series here!

Thinking of ideas for who you want to impersonate this Halloween? Or, thinking of how much you want to spend on a costume for a night out, a parade or a party? Think $87 dollars. Well, that is the amount The National Retail Federation estimated each American was willing to spend per outfit last year. That makes up for a whopping $3.2 billion on Halloween costumes in total. So where did this creepy appeal of Halloween originate from? The festive occasion finds its roots in some sinister antiquity. And this is how an ancient pagan festival transformed into a multi-billion dollar industry.

The purpose of Halloween costumes was not originally to channel your inner Catwoman or sexy nurse. 

The festival could be traced back to the pre-Christian era. Halloween, then known as Hallow’s eve, was a Celtic tradition of the Samhain which lived on earth about 2000 years ago. It was the eve demarcating summer from winter. And the arrival of the “darker months” was said to begin with spirits and ghosts visiting the earth. It was the eve when the paranormal and the mortal realms overlapped. With these two worlds colliding, it was important for humans to camouflage as supernatural beings. 


Hence, the first Halloween costume ever worn was not for decorative or festive purposes, but was actually for protection. So, the Samhain wore animal heads and skin on their own to disguise themselves. They painted their faces and wore blurry silhouettes. It was thought that this would also give them a chance to connect with their lost ancestors. 

Angels and Demons. Fairies and Witches.  

[Image Description: Photo taken in 1905 of a person wearing a ghost costume in a rural schoolhouse. Credit: Historic Photo Archive/Getty Images.] via CNN
With the advent of Christianity, there was a need to erase Pagan rites and rituals. But old traditions die hard. Eventually, the influx of Christian values merged with existing Pagan traditions. 

So the costumes were now eschewed by Biblical terms. Animal heads and skin paved the path for people dressing up in all forms of Biblical binaries: angels and demons, saints, and the devil.

So basically Halloween became a religious event. Even what we know as trick or treat today had a religious connotation to it. People would go door to door chanting verses in exchange for baked goodies. 

Americanizing Halloween costumes 

The infamous Irish potato famine in the 18th century resulted in the diaspora of the Irish community to the New World. With this, came the import of Irish traditions. They brought with them superstitions, myths, and of course, costumes. And Americans, especially the rural population, loved it. And who wouldn’t? Finally enjoying anonymity through costumes along with leisure and pleasure after decades of Puritanical domination must have been liberating.

But still, one thing remained consistent: though the purpose of costumes was now ornamental, the look remained the same – scary and frightening. The masquerades and town events held in the 19th century still revolved around the same theme: death masks, white sheets, and an obsession with the grotesque and gory. The costumes, of course, were still homemade. 

Hollywood, pop culture and fandom

[Image Description: Elvis Presley (left) opts for a subtle Halloween costume, wearing only a mask to a party in 1957.] via Getty Images
Through the 19th century, the costumes detached even more from the original context. The festival was secularized. Capitalism took over. And, the Industrial Revolution allowed for the costumes to be commercially produced. An entire industry for costumes now began to emerge. 

Enter Hollywood. Many pop-culture figures were now fair game to dress up as. And this allowed people a chance to express their fandom. Thanks to horror movie marketing, there were more and more pop culture horror icons such as Frankenstein and Scream which became popular costume choices. But as the case with mass-produced products always is, there were fewer DIY costumes. 


With the sexual revolution of the 1970s, sensual costumes were all the rage. And this gave birth to the sultry witches, the Wonder Woman, and the Medusa, an all-new Halloween aesthetic. 

This was also around the time when the queer community was facing vulnerability due to homophobic violence and Halloween proved to be one occasion which allowed fluidity: of gender, sexuality, and costumes. It was then that Halloween became an explosion of booze, glitter, music, and dynamically experimental costumes, particularly in San Francisco. This was true only for America, where Halloween costumes became the physical space where gender politics could be negotiated. In many other parts of the world, Halloween costumes remain predominantly spooky to this day.

[Image Description: A woman wearing a black costume for Halloween. She is holding a skull which is acting as an accessory.] via Unsplash
Over time, the (all-American) frivolity of Halloween also resulted in some problematic transgressions. This obsession with dressing up as something you consider “exotic” could be a form of cultural appropriation. Remember Justin Trudeau’s blackface moment? Well, such stereotypical representations have often come up. In the past years, Caitlyn Jenner costumes have popped up at several retailers along with some native American headgear. Considering these transphobic and racist costumes, just shows how exploitative the industry can sometimes be. 

So this Halloween make sure your costume does not offend anyone. 

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Categories
Race Music Inequality

Dear Latinx artists, your silence is very loud right now

[Image description: Protester holding up a sign that says "Puerto Rico Stands w/ Black Lives Matter."] via Unsplash
[Image description: Protester holding up a sign that says "Puerto Rico Stands w/ Black Lives Matter."] via Unsplash

Social media and celebrities have played a huge role in the recent explosion of Black Lives Matter protests and anti-racist advocacy. Due to the influence that media has had in today’s society, many people respond to what prominent artists and celebrities are doing because of the reach of their platforms.

As someone who is bilingual, I am fortunate enough to be able to access celebrities, their content, and art in both English and Spanish. However, the current political climate has made me realize how problematic the Latinx community of artists can be when it comes to supporting the Black community.

Especially in these times, it is important to pay attention to what people with big platforms are saying, and silence is also very loud. 

The Latinx community already suffers from racism and colorism rooted in a deep history of oppression by our own people. Many older generations of Latinx and Hispanic folk have been taught that people with darker skin have less inherent worth, feeding into racist beliefs.

Historically, the entertainment industry has heavily relied on colorism and has perpetuated the belief that lighter skin is more beautiful. Even in telenovelas, lighter-skinned actors typically play the leads while darker-skinned actors played the villains.

This is the type of colorism that is maintained in the industry. 

The sad truth is that folks learn from what they are seeing on the media.

I see this in my own family members who are from the Dominican Republic and have darker skin. They have tried to lighten or bleach their skin to look more “beautiful” like the women they see on TV.

I see this in the way many Ecuadorians in my family tell me not to marry a Black man because God forbid my children are mixed and end up with darker skin and “nappier” hair than mine.

These are the kinds of mentalities that we have to challenge in our communities. 

There have even been many instances in which non-Black celebrities fail to acknowledge their privilege and the struggles of the Black community. Just recently a very prominent Latina rapper Karol G made a comment saying that “All Lives Matter,” and completely disregarded the point of the Black Lives Matter movement. In the past, even Latina actress Gina Rodriguez has made comments rooted in colorism and completely dismissing the Black community’s struggle. Antiblackness is alive and well in the Latinx community. 

Celebrities and artists must use their platforms to challenge these misconceptions about race and color.

This is not the time for Bad Bunny to completely go M.I.A. on Instagram just because, all of a sudden, he can’t continue to promote his music.

This is not the time for Jennifer Lopez to say that “All Lives Matter,” which is an argument that has been used as a counterargument to the Black Lives Matter movement. As young Latinxs like myself try to educate our communities, it is also important to artists who our family members look up to help us and help the cause.

The gag is…racism is bad for all of us.

Black, brown, or any other type of minorities are all affected by racism to some degree. It is time that Latinxs start to understand this and realize that we must fight for our Black brothers and sisters. In this time we want to educate Latinx and Hispanic folk who blatantly disregard their ancestry and participate in colorism.

As some of my favorite American and English-speaking artists have used their platforms to spread messages supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, I am highly disappointed in the lack of response from some Latinx artists and celebrities.  Now, I personally hate the narrative that you have to post all you do on social media.

It’s as if they’re thinking, “my donation to a local bail fund doesn’t count unless everyone sees it,” and I’m sure there are many celebrities who feel the same way. 

Even before the global pandemic and the recent brutal murders of innocent Black people, there were many celebrities who were donating to many important causes or participating in philanthropic work to some degree and not posting about it. I completely support doing that, but not in the current state of the world. 

Especially in today’s political climate, these false ideas about identity and worth of a human based on their skin color can be detrimental to some communities. The recent protests and lootings in my community of the Bronx have highlighted how some Latinx and Hispanic people are blatantly racist against Black folks, ignoring the intention behind the protests and feeding into the narrative that they are “criminals” or “thugs,” in some instances even supporting the actions of police because of their deeply rooted racism.

This is my call to Latinx artists and celebrities to use their platforms as a way to educate their communities about the danger of spreading racist and colorist mentalities in these times. This is a time in which we must unite to fight the white supremacy and all systems of injustices that are in place to help us fail. This is for our own future success and for the greater good of society. Please question your silence and acknowledge the privilege you have to be able to stay quiet.

As celebrities, their reach to millions of people from the Latinx and Hispanic communities is a privilege that should be used for good in these times.

I am disappointed that they have not gotten the message, but it’s not too late. Stand with us now as we fight for Black lives and fight for a more vibrant future in which the color of a person’s skin won’t be a death sentence.

This is not just a moment.

The Black Lives Matter movement won’t die down even if the protests do.

If Latinx artists don’t speak up, they will be adding to the polarization of marginalized communities of people and continue perpetuating racist and colorist beliefs. 

Categories
USA Celebrities Race Policy Inequality

Here’s why it’s important for celebrities to show their support for #BlackLivesMatter

[Protesters at a #BlackLivesMatter demonstration] Via Unsplash
[Protesters at a #BlackLivesMatter demonstration] Via Unsplash

Across the U.S., and even in many other countries, protesters have taken the street this week to rally against widespread police brutality, systemic racism, and to call attention towards the insufficient charges brought against not only the killers of George Floyd but also the killers of countless other Black victims of racial injustice. In every city protesters have been met by the local police force, in addition to the national guard, all making use of blunt, violent, and instigative tactics. Social media has also been full of callings for change, spreading knowledge or resources, and pointing out the many hypocrisies within our current system. Some of it, however, is performative. This means that some people, often celebrities, may be posting just to give off the allusion that they care, when in reality it is just empty support. One example is with the Glee star Lea Michele. Earlier in the week she tweeted this:

https://twitter.com/LeaMichele/status/1266460976116719616

She was immediately met with backlash from a former co-worker who proved that her intentions could not possibly be genuine when those words did not reflect her actions in reality.

https://twitter.com/Sammie_Ware/status/1267632171570745345

It also seems that Lana Del Ray has spoken out in support of the movement just days after posting one of the most problematic statements I’ve read in awhile that promotes a white-washed version of feminism. News flash: if your feminism isn’t intersectional we don’t want it.

Other examples of performative behavior appears through donations. I have seen some celebrities proudly post their $50 dollar donations to community bail funds, which is not a lot of money at all considering their celebrity status. In fact, I have even seen my own friends, who are 20-something years old and unemployed, donate more money. This kind of demonstration of support is insulting to the #BlackLivesMatter movement because celebrities are the ones with privilege and capital in our society. Yet, in cases like this, they are refusing to use it, even though they say on social media that they are all for equality and justice. #openyourpurse.

What I find to be the most dangerous, though, is celebrities who have not spoken up at all, or even worse, spreading the wrong message. Most of these people have a gigantic following, making the impression that they leave on the people that are influenced by them noticeable. It is an unfortunate truth, but celebrities set an example for A LOT of people on these kinds of things. So, it is important for celebrities to use their privilege wisely in times like these. They also need to show their activism, and then act on it, because they are the ones with the money to financially support a movement. In addition, celebrities, especially white celebrities, should make it their mission to amplify Black voices at this time, instead of raising their own. Let Black people grieve, vent, scream, and mobilize. It is up to the celebrity to make an effort to elevate their words because celebrities have the audience and the means to do so. And, let’s not forget that while at protests that same advice applies because white celebrities have the privilege of getting out of an arrest situation without serious repercussions, for the most part.

Among them, however are some celebrities who are doing it right. They have taken their actions way beyond social media and are showing their support for the #BlackLivesMatter movement through large donations and in person activism. I will say that this is by no means a celebration of these celebrities or celebrity culture, but rather a recognition of what should and could be done if done right. To be fair, I am also wondering where all those celebrities are who made the entire world cringe when they sang Imagine in March thinking it would cure coronavirus.

Halsey helped treat people at protests who have been injured after being shot at with rubber bullets.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA6VPYHpLdS/

Cole Sprouse was arrested while protesting in Santa Monica. He also bailed out a lot of protesters who were arrested with him.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA5851tJlun/

Ariana Grande has been active in the spread of resources, donated to bail funds, and attended protests in Los Angeles.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAx9n8BlVAe/

https://twitter.com/ArianaGrande/status/1267161027042402304

Nick Cannon has been protesting in Minneapolis all week wearing a sweatshirt that reads, “Please. I can’t breathe.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA3t1oahRJH/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAypn1-Bzgu/

Timothée Chalamet attended protests in Los Angeles, signed positions, and donated to various organizations.

J. Cole has been attending #BlackLivesMatter protests since 2014.

Aminé, an American rapper, is protesting and has been actively pointing out injustices.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA1abdaHadV/

Jaylen Brown, a professional basketball player for the Boston Celtics, drove 15 hours to protest in his hometown of Atlanta.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA3USKGFrya/

Pedro Pascal has repeatedly been attending protests and demonstrating widespread support.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAyF2EYj8nm/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA1V8eLjuWj/

Jane Fonda has been fighting for this cause since the 1960s and is widely known as an ally to the Black Panthers.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA4JdsBgAUG/

John Cusack is known for his progressive ideals and has been attending protests in Chicago.

Kendrick Sampson is on instagram showing wounds after being shot at with rubber bullets.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CA3bJBUhiOr/

Tinashe has also been vocal through activism and by attending protests.

Justin Timberlake donated to the Minnesota Freedom Fund

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend made a $200,00 donation spread across 3 organizations. 

John Boyega is showing support all the way from the U.K. 

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds donated $200,000 to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund

Colin Kaepernick, NFL player and leader in a protest movement against police brutality and racism by kneeling during the national anthem at games, established a legal defense initiative for protesters. He will be providing free legal compensation for Minneapolis “Freedom Fighters.”

These are only a handful of the celebrities that have spoken out and make a commitment to justice. They are not special, or needing of praise. In fact, their actions should be the standard. It is a shame, but not surprising, that other celebrities aren’t not taking advantage of their privilege is beneficial and productive ways. It is all of our duty to take care and to take a stand against the hate that is seemingly all around us. Check out our action guide if you want to know how you can demand justice for George Floyd by taking an active part in eradicating racial injustice. Read it, follow it, share it, and encourage your friends/family to do the same.  

Categories
Editor's Picks Celebrities Pop Culture

Newsflash: if you’re mad at Lizzo for her outfit choices, you’re fatphobic

[Image description: Artist Lizzo performing on stage with two dancers by her side]
Wikipedia commons [Image description: Artist Lizzo performing on stage with two dancers by her side]

When I think about superstars who best represent me in media, my mind goes immediately to Lizzo.

Lizzo is the literal incarnation of my dreams. This phenomenal woman is black, empowering, loud, and unapologetic. And the cherry on top of it all?

She’s fat.

And she’s really fat, not that “I’m a size 8” bullshit fat. And so being a local fat girl myself, she gives me life. Lizzo dominates black, white, and LGBTQIA+ spaces, where typically fat black women are not embraced in the slightest. It’s honestly so exciting and liberating to see her thriving and being loved by the masses as she should be.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B53L0gLhAoh/

This is exactly what I was afraid of.

I must admit though, the thing I loved most about her also stirred up some gross self-hate within myself. Despite being so proud of how unashamed she was of her body, I found myself troubled as I scrolled through her social media accounts. I would see her posing naked and free, sexy and playful, without a care in the world. Now don’t get me wrong, I loved it! But I was so scared of the inevitable backlash. I didn’t want to deal with the gross comments, the hate, and fatphobia, and I didn’t want her to have to deal with it either. So in my head, I begged her to stop, to not challenge the status quo.

Then, one day at work, a coworker comes up ranting about how she was unfollowing Lizzo on social media because she was “running the fuck out.” I thought to myself, this is exactly what I was afraid of. She clearly saw the discomfort on my face and she tried to cover with a, “I mean I’m all for the big girl movement or whatever, but this is overboard.”

And then the comments continued to come… my worse but inevitable nightmare.

<twitter.com/seantheterrible>
[Screenshot of tweet from Twitter user @SeanTheTerrible, stating “If I see Lizzo naked one more time, I’m calling the cops..]
<twitter.com/gervontaa>
[Screenshot of tweet from Twitter user @Gervontaa, stating “That Lizzo chick losing it”]
The thing that pisses me off the most is not the fatphobia, because honestly, I’m used to it. But it’s so infuriating that everyone wants to package up their hate in pretty wrapping. They try so hard to try to convince us that it’s not about them being disgusted with our body but something else.

“I love body positivity but…”

“I love her confidence but…“

What a load of bullshit. Just be freaking honest and say you hate fat people!

You hate fat people and don’t actually support body positivity because the body positivity movement has always and only been about fat bodies.

You don’t actually love our confidence, you’re just surprised at it because on the inside you think we should be ashamed of ourselves. You expect that shame and expect fat women to cover up and make themselves unnoticeable.

I’ve spent so much of my life falling into this narrative and being ashamed of my body to make sure everyone else is comfortable. I’ve spent years never wearing shorts or skirts, even in the middle of a Florida summer. Never daring to buy a crop top or a tank top. Even in my own house, all by myself, I am uncomfortable being naked. Despite the fact that skinny people have no problem throwing their naked bodies in front of everyone’s faces at any given occasion, on the internet AND in person.

Lizzo’s recent thong outfit and twerk at a basketball game sparked excuses about how it wasn’t the “time or place.” Yet, we can look at skinny cheerleaders’ ass cheeks at half time shows and it’s okay? A basketball game half time show is literally the exact place to see ass cheeks!

This Twitter user said it best:

<twitter.com/chaantellie>
[Screenshot of tweet from Twitter user @chaantellie, stating “I hope Lizzo keeps making people uncomfortable…]
I sincerely pray that Lizzo doesn’t let the fatphobia get to her, both for herself and for those that look up to her as well. This woman is finally challenging the narrative and leaving the door wide open for girls who look like her. She’s showing us a fat icon with sex appeal. If you hate fat people, it won’t be easy to swallow but honestly, we don’t care. Mind your business, unfollow, and shut up.

Categories
Music Pop Culture

Alessia Cara is reshaping cultural expectations around beauty and we’re so here for it

Alessia Cara
[Image description: medium shot of singer Alessia Cara performing on stage, wearing an oversized grey suit] Via Today.com

Recently at the Met Gala, we saw a lot of colorful looks. The stars arrived adorned in glittery outfits and with their hair styled to perfection. Their appearances sparked conversations among people around the world. Some looks were admired while others received bitter criticism.

A lot of effort went into creating all these glittery, colorful looks. If we read closely into this, it becomes clear that all these celebrities feel the need to look a certain way at events—different, beautiful, the best that they can look.

These celebrities, even if unknowingly, are enforcing impossible ideas about beauty.

But in their midst, there’s a young star, who has refused to swim along with the stream.

Her name is Alessia Cara, and she is breaking traditional norms around the concept of beauty through her music and appearance. She has dared to be herself again and again.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnJqFTSHsxk/?utm_source=ig_embed

I heard Alessia Cara’s “Scars To Your Beautiful” at a time when my self-esteem was the lowest it had ever been. I was listening to her song on repeat—its lyrics gave me hope that I craved in my dismal life.

But there’s a hope that’s waiting for you in the dark
You should know you’re beautiful just the way you are

Cara’s music is edgy, youthful, powerful and inspiring. There’s defiance in her words. They urge you to be yourself even when the world wants you to be someone else.

But you and I, we’re pioneers, we make our own rules
Our own room, no bias here

The message threaded in her carefully-worded songs is loud, clear and important—she tells her listeners to never be apologetic for being themselves, to escape tradition, culture and conventions, and reinvent themselves—to be who they are.

It takes courage to extricate yourself from society’s expectations. The pressure to conform to these expectations weighs most heavily on celebrities. They are expected to look a certain way, to act a certain way, to be a certain way. Some celebrities have made certain (mostly impossible to achieve) beauty standards the norm. Audiences now expect all of them to look the same—perfect, unreal, ethereal human beings.

And you don’t have to change a thing, the world could change its heart
No scars to your beautiful, we’re stars and we’re beautiful

Cara has taken on the task of redefining beauty measures and promoting a healthier, more real self-image.

She hasn’t achieved this through her music alone but also through her appearances at different events.

The best example is her performance at the VMAs in 2017 where she sang “Scars To Your Beautiful”. In the beginning, she was dressed in a red gown with jewels dangling around her neck and her hair coiffed. As the song went on, the back dancers tore away the red dress, messed up her hair and took off her make up. By the end she was only wearing a plain black tank top and black jeans.

Her performance exhorted audiences to break free from the traditional measures of beauty and appearance. Her message was simple yet powerful—be who you are and not what others want you to be.

The new-age culture embodies stereotypes that especially pivot around female celebrities’ clothes. Cara is slicing these reductive stereotypes into halves by constantly dressing in clothes that are traditionally considered men’s clothes.

Cara’s music has personally been extremely important for me as it set me on the path of self-acceptance. I embraced my flaws and looked at myself differently. I realized if anyone’s opinion is important in my life, it’s my own.

It’s a well-known fact that her words have had the same effect on millions of others. But even then, she’s given much less recognition, appreciation and value than she deserves.

Her music and appearance both resonate with ordinary people. She’s real, she’s beautiful, she’s just like us. Her songs make us realize that everyone’s beautiful in their own way. And that we don’t have to change for the world. After all, we’re stars and we’re beautiful.