Listen Live
Fantastic Voyage Generic Graphics Updated Nov 2023
Black America Web Featured Video
CLOSE

Pharrell Williams has finally taken off that Buffalo hat, but its replacement – a Native American feathered war bonnet for the cover of Elle UK’s July issue – has left some Native Americans less than “happy.”

The image was unveiled on the UK magazine’s Facebook page Tuesday, June 3, and within a few hours a lot of Facebook users had called it disrespectful and a mockery of Native American culture, Indian Country Today Media Network reported.

“I really love the Happy song. I am so NOT happy upon seeing this cultural appropriation, though,” Melissa ‘Spider’ Smith commented. “Blatant disrespect to Native people and cultural traditions is really disgusting. As a major magazine, you should already know better.”

Monika Trujillo wrote: “Our Culture is not an accessory! How dare the War Bonnet be worn in the same fashion as the Arby’s 10 gallon monstrosity. Money, fame and wealth cannot make one exempt from or pardoned of a racist act. Color on color crime is on display here. Sorry but that’s how I feel.”

“If this is about culture appreciation…why not hire real native American models? Or an actual chief who has earned the right to wear that headdress?” Sandy Gaitan said. “They can still put Pharrell on the cover somewhere Lol… just not causing controversy by wearing the headdress.”

Some offended Facebook users went directly to Williams’ official Facebook page to express their disapproval of the cover.

“You have no right to wear a headdress that is so sacred to native people.” Gail Lichtsinn posted. “Those headdresses are earned and not worn to make a buck or draw attention. They have meaning and are worn by our men with pride and dignity.”

“This is a mockery of a proud people,” Lichtsinn added. “We are not a joke and take these things very seriously. Go back to wearing your OWN clothes.”

What do you think? Is he being disrespectful by wearing the headdress?

Like BlackAmericaWeb.com on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter.

REGISTER NOW for the 2014 Allstate Tom Joyner Family Reunion taking place August 28- September 1, 2014 in Orlando, Florida! For booking information, call 407-248-9191.

(Photo Source: PR)