Having someone touch our hair without permission is a crime many black women fall victim to. Needless to say, the offender is typically a misinformed white person who didn’t get the memo that it’s rude. Long story short: don’t touch it. And of course, this type of misconduct happens way too often–even in Hollywood.
Last week, a picture captured of Rihanna and Sarah Paulson while filming Ocean’s 8 went viral because the image accurately depicts what it’s like for a black woman who falls victim to the curiosity of a friend or stranger.
The images show Rihanna, who we can assume is cooperating with her inquisitive co-star as she gropes her faux locs with her fingers. And while we don’t know what was said, Instagram memes have helped us put the image into a hilarious perspective. Sadly, we can relate:
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"I just think that all lives matter and it's not a race thing. Btw love the corn roads" pic.twitter.com/yxxh4YJlJ0
— kyylar (@kurlykyyla) December 5, 2016
"Is this your real hair can I touch it?" pic.twitter.com/mC6oXBbPj8
— J. (@whytruy) December 4, 2016
"Soooo how long does it take to do all these twisties?" pic.twitter.com/LSMPYuZugu
— RN (@DopeEthiopian) December 4, 2016
@kurlykyyla @PursuitofArete rihanna left hand telling the right hand to not slap the shit out of her pic.twitter.com/3GllEHtnfe
— ash (@Ashley_Says) December 5, 2016
We applaud Rihanna for resisting the urge to well…clap back (zeroes in on nervous hand rub).