I'm Sorry Babe, I Don't Give AF About Your Beauty Brand Right Now

I'm holding your hand as I say this......

The 2024 Presidential Election has left many of us grappling with a profound sense of disappointment and uncertainty. For individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities, this moment demands a period of reflection and adaptation as we face a new reality that will significantly shape the next four years - a reality that many fear will bring about negative changes.

As a Black gay man with a college education, I find myself at a complex intersection of identities and experiences. My journey to success has been marked by hard work and perseverance, particularly given my background. However, navigating the pre and post-pandemic professional landscape often required me to adopt a deferential "yassum" demeanor to advance in my career.

The social awakening that followed events like George Floyd's tragic death granted me the freedom to shed this mask of conformity. Yet, this newfound authenticity came with its own set of challenges. While I could now express myself more genuinely, I also encountered new obstacles in a world still struggling to fully embrace racial and identity diversity.

Now, in November 2024, mere days after the election, I'm confronted with the sobering reality that the incoming administration may actively work against the communities I belong to, showing little regard for our rights and well-being. As a Black gay man employed in the beauty industry, I find it difficult to focus on the usual concerns of my profession. The launch of a new brand, lipstick, or face cream seems trivial in the face of potential legislation that could criminalize aspects of my identity and self-expression.

@couriernewsroom“but we know now”

Tiktok failed to load.

Enable 3rd party cookies or use another browser

This is a challenging time for many of us. The possibility that wearing makeup could soon become illegal for someone like me underscores the gravity of our current situation. I ask for understanding and patience as we process these developments and their implications for our lives and communities.

I can't help but feel a deep sense of frustration and disappointment with the poor and wealthy, white women who voted against their own interests and the interests of marginalized communities. This pattern, unfortunately, is not new. Throughout history, we've seen how certain groups of privileged women often prioritize maintaining their social status over advocating for broader equality and justice. This tendency extends to many white men as well, demonstrating how deeply ingrained these attitudes can be.

What's particularly unsettling is the realization that even within the largely liberal beauty community in New York City, there are individuals who quietly support and embrace a leader with a controversial and legally troubled past. These people move among us, smiling and interacting, while potentially harboring views that could have severe consequences for many in our community.

This dichotomy within our professional circles adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. It serves as a stark reminder that the fight for equality and acceptance is far from over, even in spaces we might consider progressive or inclusive. As we navigate this new political landscape, we must remain vigilant and continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their race, sexual orientation or gender identity.

Right now, for the rest of this week, I have nothing kind to say or no words of inspiration to offer.

I am angry.

I am disappointed.

I am afraid.

So yes, I don’t give af about anything besides Black people and those that stand on the right side of HERstory with us.