Dove’s Controversial Partnership with BLM Activist Sparks Outrage
Dove, a prominent player in the beauty industry, recently launched a campaign titled ‘Fat Liberation’ in collaboration with BLM activist Zyanha Bryant. However, this move has stirred significant controversy, drawing criticism for the brand.
Many are expressing their displeasure with Dove’s decision to partner with Zyanha, who faced accusations of causing the wrongful expulsion of a white student from a university due to a “misheard” statement.
Zyanha, a 22-year-old community organizer and student activist attending the University of Virginia, made the announcement of her role as a “Dove Ambassador” on Instagram.
In her video message, Zyanha emphasized the importance of Fat Liberation and the need to create inclusive spaces and institutions for individuals with larger bodies. She stressed the significance of centering the voices and experiences of the most marginalized communities.
Zyanha encouraged others to join the conversation on Fat Liberation by using the hashtag #SizeFreedom and tagging @dove to share their own stories and perspectives.
In an interview with Reason Magazine, the white student involved in the incident, Morgan, shared the profound impact it had on her life. Despite the incident being later characterized as a “misheard” comment, it had lasting consequences for Morgan. She expressed frustration that the university had not taken responsibility for the harm caused. While she managed to graduate from the university, the incident left a permanent mark on her record, thwarting her dreams of pursuing a career in law.
Dove’s association with Zyanha Bryant has sparked a heated debate, with critics questioning the brand’s judgment and ethics in light of the controversy surrounding Zyanha’s actions.
Re-reported from the article originally published in Hindustan Times