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Black Women Are Transforming the World of Instagram Mermaids
The carefree aesthetic is appealing for many, but the inclusion also is full of political purpose
“Most of the time, Instagram’s professional mermaids infuse the digital world with beauty and magic. The average person can’t extract a service or buy a product from them (unless they’re planning a kid’s birthday). Merfolk exist simply to be enjoyed and to sprinkle enchantment into the monotony of everyday life. It’s also an overwhelmingly White social media niche. For years, people of color have been pushing for more diversity among merfolk, but they face a community finally reckoning with its lack of inclusivity and representation for the first time.” — Elisabeth Sherman
Read Sherman’s story in its entirety below.