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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

Jada Gomez
Momentum
Jan 26, 2021

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“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.

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Momentum
Momentum

Published in Momentum

Momentum is a blog that captures and reflects the moment we find ourselves in, one where rampant anti-Black racism is leading to violence, trauma, protest, reflection, sorrow, and more. Momentum doesn’t look away when the news cycle shifts.

Jada Gomez
Jada Gomez

Written by Jada Gomez

Senior Platform Editor at Medium. Girl with the long last name from the Empire State. NYU Alum. Runner. Puppy Mommy. Smiler.

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