Marwa Rateb, an influencer based in the UAE, recently faced backlash after posting videos with a blackface on her Snapchat. What was once an overlooked societal issue is now a prominent point of deliberation, and users are not letting it slide. Cultural appropriation is exploitative and disrespectful, something today’s society is fortunately aware and sensitive about.
Accusations against Marwa Rateb
Marwa, an influencer with over 441 K followers on Instagram and 2 million subscribers on Snapchat, was seen promoting a 4-day event called ‘Meraati’ donning what one can understand to be an African attire. The videos of her dancing to the popular song Jerusalema and talking about the famous Lion King phrase Hakuna Matata were seen on her Snapchat.
Taking to her Instagram, a user that came across the content called the actor out for her controversial actions. The user went on to write in her story, “Being famous doesn’t make it okay to be racist!! Disgusting behaviour”. She explains what blackface is and what common cultural appropriation can look like.
Marwa Rateb is from Syria but is settled in the UAE. Her content revolves around lifestyle and fashion. After the backlash, Marwa defended herself by explaining that her actions were a result of the love and appreciation she had for the black community. According to her, it is an attempt to express her admiration for the community. The social media star seems not to understand the sentiment with which the online community is pointing out her mistake.
What is cultural appropriation?
Cultural appropriation is a form of oppression that involves a dominant culture reinforcing stereotypes of non-dominant cultures. It is a sensitive issue that is hard to understand. However, certain racist acts do not need a explanation, as it is painfully apparent. Using another’s culture, including dance and dress, is a form of cultural appropriation.
What is blackface? Why is it offensive?
Blackface, simply defined, would be the use of dark makeup to imitate the appearance of the black community. It is an incredibly unethical act that has been criticised for ages. The history behind blackface and its offensive nature goes back to the time of the Minstrel Shows, shows that made fun of black characters and played up negative stereotypes. It is an issue that is concerning and problematic, and influencers need to be educated.
Influencers and the need to be educated on societal concerns
Influencers play a huge role in the way society perceives culture, art and tradition. While they are not the only or most trustworthy source of information, they are definitely the go-to for bits of news, entertainment and educational content. In such a scenario, it becomes essential for influencers to educate themselves on issues of the society to deliver content that is educative and important.
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