Influencers Who Cancelled For Cultural Appropriation Examples: Complete Guide & Key Details
Oh, the internet! It's a wild place, isn't it? One minute you're scrolling through cute cat videos, and the next you're deep in a discussion about cultural appropriation.
It seems like every other week, a big-name influencer finds themselves in a bit of a pickle. They do something, say something, or wear something, and suddenly the internet mob descends. It's often for something called cultural appropriation.
Now, what exactly is this mysterious thing? Think of it as borrowing. But not just any borrowing. It's like borrowing your friend's favorite sweater without asking, and then wearing it to a party where everyone else is wearing their own clothes. It can feel a little… off, right?
And when influencers do it, the internet gets really, really loud. Suddenly, their carefully curated feeds are filled with angry comments. Their follower count might even take a nosedive. It's a digital drama, folks!
Let's dive into some of the most talked-about moments. It's a bit like a celebrity gossip column, but with more learning involved. You might even find yourself nodding along with a little smile.
The Case of the "Cornrows"
One of the most frequent offenders? Hairstyles! Specifically, hairstyles that have deep roots in Black culture. Think cornrows, box braids, and things like that.
An influencer might wear these styles and post a picture with a caption like, "Feeling so edgy today!" The internet's response? Often, not so much with the edginess, more with the historical context.
People point out that these styles are not just fashion trends. They have been part of Black culture for centuries, worn for practical and cultural reasons. When someone from outside that culture wears them as a fleeting trend, it can feel disrespectful. It's like taking something deeply meaningful and turning it into a costume.
Many influencers have faced backlash for this. Some have apologized, some have doubled down, and some have just quietly deleted the offending posts. It's a recurring theme in the influencer apology playbook.
Feathered Fiascos and Sacred Symbols
Then there's the whole issue of headdresses. You know, those magnificent feathered crowns worn by many Indigenous peoples, particularly in North America.
An influencer might attend a music festival, grab a cheap costume headdress from a vendor, and strut their stuff. They think it looks cool. They want that bohemian, free-spirit vibe for their photos.
But for many Indigenous communities, these headdresses are not fashion accessories. They are earned. They hold spiritual significance and represent leadership and respect. Wearing one without understanding or earning that right is seen as deeply offensive. It's trivializing something sacred.
We've seen plenty of influencers get called out for this. Often, they are young and perhaps just unaware. But the internet doesn't always have a lot of patience for ignorance. The result? A quick trip to the "cancellation" zone.
When "Boho" Becomes "Bo-No"
The "bohemian" or "tribal" aesthetic can also be a minefield. Think patterns, jewelry, and clothing styles inspired by various cultures around the world.
An influencer might put together an outfit with what they call "tribal prints." They might be from Africa, Asia, or Latin America. They think it looks exotic and chic.
However, these patterns often have specific meanings and histories within their original cultures. They might be associated with certain tribes, ceremonies, or even spiritual beliefs. Simply slapping them on a trendy top without any understanding can be problematic.
It can feel like taking a piece of someone's heritage and turning it into a fleeting fashion statement. For many, it’s a painful reminder of a history where their cultures were often exploited or dismissed.
The "Bindis" and the "Bind-Ons"
Let's talk about the bindi. This decorative dot worn on the forehead by many South Asian women, particularly in Hinduism, has deep religious and cultural significance.
An influencer might wear a bindi to a festival or as a "fashion statement." They might not know its meaning. They just think it looks pretty.
The issue here is that the bindi is not just a sparkly sticker. It's connected to tradition, spirituality, and identity. For some, seeing it worn casually by people outside of their culture can be disheartening. It can feel like a sacred symbol being reduced to a mere accessory.
Again, the internet calls. And often, the influencer has to explain themselves. Sometimes with a sincere apology, sometimes with a less-than-convincing excuse.
The Kimono Conundrum
Clothing items with specific cultural origins can also be a source of controversy. Take the kimono, the traditional Japanese garment.
A fashion brand or an influencer might release or wear a "kimono-style robe." They might use the word "kimono" very loosely, applying it to anything with a similar silhouette and pattern.
The problem arises when these items are not made or presented with respect for the actual kimono. It's about more than just the shape of a robe. It’s about the craftsmanship, the history, and the cultural context of the garment.
When the term "kimono" is used for something that bears little resemblance to the real thing, it can be seen as disrespectful to Japanese culture. It's like calling a t-shirt a "tunic" and expecting everyone to understand.
The "Why" Behind the "What"
So, why do these "cancellations" happen? It’s not usually about trying to ruin someone's career. It's often about trying to educate.
When influencers, who have such a huge reach, adopt elements from other cultures without understanding, it can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. It can also make people from those cultures feel invisible or that their traditions are being commodified.
The internet, in its own loud and sometimes clumsy way, is often trying to say: "Hey, this is important. This means something to people. Let's be mindful."
It’s a complex issue, for sure. And honestly, it’s a learning process for everyone. Even for those of us just scrolling through.
What's the Takeaway?
The easiest path? Do your research. If you’re inspired by something from another culture, learn about it. Understand its significance. Give credit where credit is due.
It’s about more than just avoiding a social media scandal. It’s about showing respect. It’s about being a good global citizen in this increasingly connected world.
And maybe, just maybe, it’s about learning to appreciate the beauty of different cultures without turning them into fleeting trends. A little empathy goes a long way, even online.
So next time you see an influencer rocking something that looks a little… borrowed, take a moment. Think about the story behind it. The internet might be noisy, but sometimes, it’s trying to tell us something important. And perhaps, we can all learn from these digital oopsies.
It's a learning curve for everyone involved. And honestly, the online world is still figuring out the etiquette.