What's Happening?
Elise Bonilla-Myers, a social media influencer from California, is facing criticism for her approach to celebrating a 'decolonized Christmas.' Known on social media as 'glutenfree_girlfriend,' Bonilla-Myers has
shared her holiday plans, which include using indigenous recipes and purchasing gifts from native-owned businesses. Her recipes, such as gluten-free griddle masa cookies, aim to avoid ingredients not native to the Americas, like wheat and barley. Additionally, she is sourcing gifts from businesses owned by Indigenous, Hispanic, and women entrepreneurs. Despite her intentions, Bonilla-Myers has been criticized online, with some questioning the relevance of decolonizing a holiday like Christmas, which they argue is not directly related to American colonization.
Why It's Important?
The backlash against Bonilla-Myers highlights ongoing debates about cultural appropriation and the authenticity of 'woke' practices. Her attempt to decolonize Christmas by focusing on indigenous ingredients and businesses raises questions about how cultural traditions are adapted and interpreted in modern contexts. This situation underscores the complexities of navigating cultural sensitivity and authenticity in public forums, especially on social media platforms where diverse opinions can quickly amplify criticism. The incident also reflects broader societal discussions about the commercialization of cultural practices and the role of influencers in shaping public perceptions.
