The Problem with Ariana Grande’s Cultural Appropriation
Ariana Grande is a popular American singer known for her hit songs, including “Thank U, Next” and “7 Rings.” However, her success has also been marred by claims of cultural appropriation. Grande has been accused of appropriating black culture by using black vernacular, hairstyles, and clothing without acknowledging the origins or giving credit to the black community.
Cultural appropriation is the act of taking aspects of another culture without respecting its cultural significance. This can cause harm to the culture that is being appropriated by trivializing their traditions, beliefs, and customs. Grande’s actions have caused controversy because she has been accused of exploiting black culture for her own benefit, without acknowledging its origins or the struggle that black people have gone through.
Ariana Grande’s Use of Black Vernacular
One of the main issues with Grande’s cultural appropriation is her use of black vernacular. She has been accused of using phrases and slang that originates from black culture, without acknowledging its origins or giving credit to the black community. This can be seen in her song “7 Rings,” where she borrows the phrase “Whoever said money can’t solve your problems, must not have had enough money to solve them” from a meme popularized by black rapper 2 Chainz.
Grande’s use of black vernacular has been criticized as exploiting black culture for her own benefit without acknowledging the struggles that black people have gone through.
Ariana Grande’s Use of Black Hairstyles
Another issue with Grande’s cultural appropriation is her use of black hairstyles. Grande has been accused of appropriating black hairstyles such as braids and ponytails without acknowledging their cultural significance. In one instance, she posted a picture of herself with box braids on Instagram, which sparked controversy and accusations of cultural appropriation.
Black hairstyles have been an important part of black culture for centuries. They have been used as a form of artistic expression and a way to celebrate black identity. However, when non-black people appropriate these hairstyles without acknowledging their cultural significance, it can be seen as trivializing and erasing the struggle that black people have gone through.
Ariana Grande’s Use of Black Clothing
Grande has also been accused of appropriating black clothing without acknowledging its cultural significance. In her music videos and performances, she has been seen wearing streetwear and urban clothing that originates from black culture. However, she has been accused of using these clothing styles for her own benefit without giving credit to the black community.
Black clothing styles have been a way for black people to express themselves and celebrate their identity. However, when non-black people appropriate these styles without acknowledging their cultural significance, it can be seen as exploiting black culture for their own benefit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ariana Grande’s cultural appropriation has caused controversy because she has been accused of exploiting black culture without acknowledging its origins or giving credit to the black community. This can be seen in her use of black vernacular, black hairstyles, and black clothing styles. It is important for individuals to acknowledge the cultural significance of these aspects of black culture and to give credit to the black community when appropriate. Cultural appropriation can trivialize and erase the struggle that black people have gone through, and it is important to be aware of these issues and to avoid engaging in cultural appropriation.
