Idris Elba shared a photo himself wearing a shirt about Black culture, and people didn’t think the message was appropriate.
All Idris Elba wanted to do was celebrate Juneteenth while also highlighting police brutality, but people weren’t aligning with his vision. The actor and activist shared a photo himself to social media wearing a black t-shirt and it small white writing it reads, “Take my art, culture, fashion, life, music, science.” The word “life” is crossed out, and many interpreted the message to be don’t take my life, but you can have everything else.
Jeff Spicer / Stringer / Getty s
Celebrities and fans alike were quick to correct Idris Elba, letting him know that in no way, shape or form is it okay for anyone to take Black art, culture, fashion, music, science, lives, or anything else. There have been arguments for years that mainstream culture has regularly borrowed or stolen from Black culture, including the ongoing discussion social media creators (TikTok, primarily) swiping ideas from lesser know Black creators on platforms. There are also the cries cultural appropriation, causing many to denounce Idris for his Juneteeth celebratory tweet.
You can check out Idris Elba and his t-shirt design below along with a few reactions. Let us know if you think people are overreacting with their criticisms.
pKmR”>https://t.co/YxGg9RpKmR— sesshōmaru (@earth2solo) June 19, 2020