Shocking claims were recently made by former employees of Grammy-winning singer Lizzo. According to a lawsuit filed by three dancers that worked for the singer, Lizzo, her production company Big Grrrl Big Touring Inc., along with her dance team captain, Shirlene Quigley, created hostile work environment. The claims allege that sexual harassment, weight-shaming, religious and racial harassment, as well as disability discrimination were part of the workplace experience, although the singer has denied these claims.
What makes these allegations so egregious is that Lizzo is known to be a proponent of body positivity and inclusivity. The singer/songwriter/flutist, who describes herself as a “body icon,” has built a large and loyal following and her fans have come to appreciate her unapologetic attitude as well as her transparency. The fame, notoriety and wealth she has amassed have been accompanied by persistent anti-blackness and fatphobia. Upon further examination, there are four takeaways that can be gleaned from this particular situation.
The Oppressed can also be the Oppressors
Audre Lorde once wrote, “the true focus of revolutionary change is never merely the oppressive situations that we seek to escape, but that piece of the oppressor which is planted deep within each of us.” Belonging to a marginalized group does not prevent you from wielding your power over others. Being a Black woman who has experienced discrimination doesn’t negate that you can simultaneously use your control and influence over others to cause harm. More discourse is needed around how those from marginalized communities can internalize the stereotypes and biases about their marginalized identities and can regurgitate these oppressive ideologies in ways that impact others.
Boundaries are Necessary in Every Workplace
Claims in the aforementioned lawsuit allege that Lizzo forced employees to engage in activities without their full consent and with “little regard…for the bodily autonomy of [these] employees.” Regardless of a person’s occupation, there should always be respect for their boundaries. There has to be an understanding that although there may be a sense of informality, camaraderie and even friendship in a work environment, there must always be respect for the needs and desires of employees, the boundaries they set, and consent is mandatory. Having well-defined expectations set forth both at the start of employment and prior to after-work outings can provide more clarity in different situations.
Always Believe Victims
After the news broke about the lawsuit against Lizzo, many chimed in via social media to share opinions about whether the alleged victims were being truthful. A leaked audition video of one of Lizzo’s accusers Arianna Davis, led some to believe that because Davis was praising Lizzo in the audition tape that she must have been lying about the allegations. In many cases when abuse takes place, the victims are individuals from marginalized and oppressed communities who lack the wealth, power, privilege and access to advocate for themselves and address the abuse they’ve experienced.
The hate and vitriol hurled at those who report abuse may make victims, especially those from marginalized communities, less likely to speak out. Fewer immigrants, for example, may report domestic abuse, according to a New York Times article. In a workplace setting, it is imperative that any individual that comes forward to report harm be taken seriously and steps are put in place to both address and repair the harm that employees have experienced. It is vital that we always believe victims until we are provided with evidence to the contrary.
Fatphobia, Misogynoir and Anti-blackness are Pervasive
You can discuss this situation without engaging in fatphobia, misogynoir and anti-blackness against Lizzo. There has been valid criticism, such as why the singer decided to hire Marty Singer, whose clients have included Bill Cosby, Ricky Martin, and Arnold Schwarzenegger, as her lawyer. Despite valid critiques of the situation, some of the commentary surrounding the “Truth Hurts” singer since the news of the lawsuit broke has been cloaked in fatphobia, misogynoir and anti-blackness. It’s important to recognize how our evaluations of this situation are marred by our biases—we are much more likely to find fault in a Black woman, especially a self-proclaimed fat, unapologetic, Black woman.
It is critical to recognize how our own lenses influence our understanding and perspective. While being in solidarity with the alleged victims, we must also recognize how easy it is to denigrate Lizzo because of the identities she holds. We cannot forget about that piece of the oppressor that is buried deep within each of us. Lastly, it is vital that we interrogate this situation with a discerning eye, understanding that although Lizzo has been oppressed by the system in many ways, it’s just as easy for someone in her position to use their power and privilege to cause harm against others.
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