Shang-Chi star Awkwafina quits Twitter after ‘blaccent’ backlash
- The Crazy Rich Asians actress finally responded to accusations that she appropriated black culture, while reflecting on her Asian-American identity
- Soon after, she announced she would be deactivating her account on the social media platform, per her therapist’s recommendation
After years of criticism, Awkwafina has finally responded to allegations that she used a “blaccent” and appropriated black culture to further her career.
The star of Crazy Rich Asians and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings released a statement Saturday vowing to “always listen” and work “tirelessly” to support marginalised communities before announcing she is taking a break from Twitter.
The rapper-turned-actor has long been accused of imitating African-American Vernacular English to become famous, but dropping the blaccent when it no longer benefited her.
“There is a sociopolitical context to everything, especially the historical context of the African-American community in this country,” Awkwafina, whose real name is Nora Lum, wrote.
“It is a group that is disproportionately affected by institutionalised policies and law enforcement policies – all the while having historically and routinely seen their culture stolen, exploited and appropriated by the *dominant* culture for monetary gain without acknowledgement nor respect for where those roots come from, the pioneers of its beginnings and the artists that perfected and mastered the craft.”