Thank God club photographers aren’t historians. As someone who is new to a city or even looking for something new to do in their current city, I reach out to social media first. It's where I get to see what type of food a restaurant makes, what their aesthetic is like, and what people are saying about it. The same goes for clubs and bars in the city. But here's the thing: If I didn’t know any better, based on the social media posts that clubs and their promoters share, you would think that Black women who are of a darker complexion and/or those with larger bodies don’t exist. And let me tell you, it's disheartening.
Now, some may argue that it's not a big deal, but for someone like me who champions herself on representation and is constantly challenging myself to be more inclusive, it's disheartening to see that we're almost nonexistent on such pages. Representation matters, and it's about time that clubs and promoters realize the power they have in shaping the narrative.
When I scroll through those club and bar feeds, I want to see people who look like me. I want to see diversity, different body types, and a range of skin tones. I want to know that I will be welcomed and celebrated in these spaces, regardless of my appearance. Social media has become a powerful tool for showcasing businesses and events, and it's time to use that power responsibly.
It's not just about ticking boxes and including token representation. It's about genuinely embracing diversity and making everyone feel valued and included. So, to all the club photographers and promoters out there, I urge you to be more conscious of the images you share. Show the world that your establishment is a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of their size, skin color, or any other aspect of their appearance. Challenge the stereotypes and break down the barriers.
To those who are reading this, let's continue to demand better representation and inclusion. Let's support the businesses that prioritize diversity and make us feel seen. And let's use our voices to bring about change. Together, we can create a world where social media reflects the true beauty of our diverse communities.
When we all come together, we can rewrite the narrative and redefine what it means to be truly seen and represented in the world