Gabrielle Union Addresses Critics of Her Blonde Hair at Essence Magazine Upfronts
by Karen
Essence Magazine held their first annual Upfront Breakfast in NYC today, in efforts for continued support of the publications uplifting and empowerment for black women. During the program, renowned beauties Actress Gabrielle Union, legendary supermodel Iman, Bethann Hardison, and Patrice (from Afrobella) came together for a ‘Smart Beauty’ panel to discuss various criticisms and tips for the appearance of Black Women.
Moderated by Mikki Taylor, Editor-at-Large for Essence Magazine, the ladies sat down to discuss issues from racism to hair colors all while maintaining the message of self-confidence. During the panel, Gabrielle Union addressed her own plight of the criticisms behind switching up her hairstyles and colors, and her decision for the transformation being received as “not normal” amongst black women.
“It was a brouhaha when I changed my hair to blonde for a movie, says Union. “[I received] questions about my character and my blackness! I was like, ‘umm, I thought that it was pretty clear that it was for a job.’ But even if it wasn’t for a job, it’d be my choice. It feels like my choice — or what they thought was my choice — to be somehow closer to white reflected on everybody.”
The Essence Magazine team made several huge announcements including the 20th Anniversary of the Essence Music Festival, a new Essence Women Who Are Shaping The World Conference, and the Essence Street Style Awards hosted by celebrity stylist June Ambrose whom was also in attendance. For more pictures from the event, hit the jump.
[Shouts to GlamazonBlog]