cultural appropriation

Should You Boycott ‘Avatar: The Way of Water’?

Cameron's latest film has been criticized for its depiction of indigenous cultures, leaving many fans wondering if it's worth the watch.…

February 9, 2023

A drawing of Lemirande shows a hand holding a phone with a taco on its screen

Did Bria Lemirande Have To Apologize for Cowboy Caviar?

Vanessa Rivera, James Madison University

The popular TikTok star made a public apology video last week, but was it warranted?…

August 9, 2022

In an article about cultural appropriation and fetishization, Oli London sits in bed recovering from plastic surgery to slant their eyes.

Oli London Demonstrates the Problem With Transracial Identities

Lauren Sung, University of Georgia

The British influencer has elicited accusations of cultural appropriation and fetishization following their statement that they now identify as Korean. Here's why.…

July 14, 2021

The Tanning Industry Can Be a Danger to People of Color

Jael Davis, DePaul University

Don’t let the colorful swimsuits and fruity lotions fool you: Excessive sun or UVA exposure can be a pathway toward racial transgressions.…

June 18, 2021

‘Great British Bake-Off’ Is a Welcome Distraction From Pandemic Life

Aimi Wen, Duke University

Filled with memorable bakes, heartwarming stories and happy endings, the baking show is the perfect break from stressful times.…

December 13, 2020

AAVE is often used by white people on popular social media apps

Dear Non-Black People, AAVE Is Not ‘Stan’ or ‘Internet Culture’

Imani Benberry, Columbia University

The use of African American Vernacular English has become increasingly popular on social media, but ultimately, it exploits Black expression.…

August 24, 2020

In an article about fast fashion company Shein, an illustration of factory workers sewing clothes

Shining a Light on Shein’s Unethical Labor Practices

Reem Farhat, Fordham University

Their recent release of offensive products has consumers outraged, but the company's fast fashion practices and sweatshops hurt much more than feelings.…

July 23, 2020

In article about Muslim clothing, woman's hands covered in henna and glitter

Double Standards and the Cultural Appropriation of Muslim Clothing

Farah Javed, CUNY Baruch College

Traditional religious clothing marks brown people as targets of discrimination. Meanwhile, companies and celebrities rebrand these styles as chic and trendy.…

July 22, 2020

Kim Kardashian, sometimes the subject of black outrage

How Outrage in the Black Community Was Turned Into a Commodity

Alyssa Alexander, SUNY Buffalo State

Celebrities like the Kardashians and companies like H&M are praised for the styles that black people are derided for, then profit off of the publicity caused by the anger.…

May 11, 2020

Will ‘A Little Late with Lilly Singh’ Fall Short After Just One Season?

Nanda Illahi, Okayama University

The YouTuber and television personality could be paving the way for queer women of color, but her repetitive and stereotypical jokes might be too problematic.…

March 14, 2020