Willow Smith Felt "Shunned" By Black Community For Being Different

BYErika Marie4.1K Views
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Willow Smith, Red Table Talk, Black Culture, Shunned
She discussed criticisms both she and her brother Jaden have received for being "different."

The Smiths may be famous, but they're an unconventional family. Will Smith has gone from Philly's Fresh Prince to one of the most celebrated actors in the world, Jada Pinkett Smith leads her own alternative rock band, and while eldest son Trey keeps a pretty low profile, Jaden and Willow have developed their own eclectic creative styles that have shaped them as alternative pop artists. On the latest episode of Red Table Talk, Willow Smith spoke about how she felt ostracized by the Black community for not fitting into a certain mold.

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“Specifically with the African American community, I felt like me and Jaden were shunned a little bit," said Willow. "Like, 'We’re not going to take pride in them because they’re too different, they’re too weird.'... Even some of our family members, I would feel they thought we’re too different.” Her grandmother, Adrienne Banfield-Jones, agreed with Willow. “We do have a way within the community that we expect our kids to be raised, like how you behave, how you carry yourself."

Jada added, “But there are different ways that can be successful.” Elsewhere in the episode, the ladies discussed Black stereotypes and why there seems to be certain criteria that people follow to prove that they're "Black enough." Do you think that someone needs to fit a specific "type" to be broadly accepted by the Black community? Check out a clip from the show below.


About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.
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