Gabby Douglas is currently in Rio competing at the 2016 Olympics and while the world should be completely mesmerized by her athletic prowess, the United States gymnast is yet again being criticized for her hair.
If this all sounds familar — it should. Four years ago when Douglas was busy making Olympic history (she is the first American gymnast to win gold in both the individual all-around and team competitions) the internet exploded with hateful comments reffering to her hair as umkempt and unsightly. Fast forward to Sunday night while the 20-year-old was competing for more Olympic glory and the trolls were back out in full force.
And while the internet trolls are a small fraction of the otherwise positive commentary being shared, we’re saddend by the fact that many of these ugly thoughts are coming from the Black community.
But before any of these haters travel further down the road of ignorance, there have been several voices of reason to gather them (aka put them in their place). Here are just a few of the best clapbacks we’ve seen…
While y'all are talking bad about Gabby Douglas hair do y'all EVEN. HAVE. A PASSPORT. TO MAKE IT. TO RIO?!?!! pic.twitter.com/wIWh8NzSXJ
The road to the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ is paved with beads, the lively sounds of brass bands, and the unstoppable spirit of the Mystic Krewe of Femme Fatale. For the fourth time, ESSENCE, Femme Fatale, and Coca-Cola® are joining forces to UPLIFT AND SHARE THE MOMENT—launching an unforgettable journey to EFOC with a spectacular Mardi Gras celebration like no other! This year, we’re cranking up the excitement by giving you an exclusive peek behind the scenes for the very first time!
Founded in 2013, the groundbreaking all-female Mardi Gras krewe made history as the first established by African American women for African American women—but its spirit of inclusivity welcomes everyone to join the fun! Femme Fatale goes beyond the parade route, fostering a year-round sisterhood rooted in service, mentorship, and cultural pride. Through leadership programs, community outreach, and signature initiatives like Say Yes to the Prom Dress, the krewe uplifts and supports women of all ages. The hard work and dedication put into preparing for Mardi Gras is just as important as their year-round efforts.
Year after year, Femme Fatale goes all-in to refresh their floats, costumes, and throws, ensuring that each parade is an unforgettable experience. The process starts months before the parade, with members brainstorming ideas, designing intricate costumes, and collaborating with artisans to create custom throws. The work that goes into it is a true labor of love—each costume, throw, and float serves as a reflection of the krewe’s creativity, passion, and dedication to putting on a show that reflects their commitment to the community. And when it all comes together, the result is nothing short of pure joy! Like the ESSENCE Festival of Culture, Mardi Gras is a celebration of life, culture, and unity—an explosion of color, music, and energy that brings people together in a way that’s truly unforgettable.
