With the upcoming release of the Black Twitter documentary, it’s clear that this social media platform has become a powerful tool for Black voices and culture. From trending hashtags to viral memes, Black Twitter has been responsible for some of the most impactful and entertaining moments on the internet. In honor of its influence, we’ve compiled a brief list of some of the most memorable moments that have made Black Twitter a cultural staple.
The “Zola” Series
The Zola series was a huge hit on Black Twitter, and it’s easy to see why. The gripping, true story of a stripper’s wild weekend in Florida quickly went viral, captivating audiences with its juicy drama and larger-than-life characters.
But beyond the entertainment, the Zola series also had a significant impact on Black Twitter. It demonstrated that unheard voices can use social media to tell their own stories and gain recognition, a feat that has been challenging to achieve within mainstream media. By providing a platform for these diverse perspectives, Zola and Black Twitter have changed the way we tell stories and express our points of view.
#OscarsSoWhite
Back in 2015, Black Twitter had a major impact on Hollywood with the creation of the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite. The hashtag was a response to the lack of diversity among nominees at the Academy Awards, quickly becoming a topic of discussion on social media. With Black Twitter leading the charge, the hashtag became significant for those tired of Hollywood’s habitual overlooking of people of color in the film industry. It sparked a conversation about representation and inclusion that continues today, showcasing the potent influence of social media in effecting change.
Negro Solstice
On December 21, 2020, a new trend took off among Black Twitter users, who jokingly suggested they would be receiving magical powers. It all began with a tweet from a user named lottidot, who pointed out the irony of the date coinciding with the release of the Coronavirus vaccine. The trend quickly evolved as users made playful claims about the vaccine being developed by the U.S. government to alter the genetic codes of Americans.
From hilarious memes to declarations of power, Black Twitter was ablaze with the possibility of gaining superhuman abilities. While the trend was all in good fun and meant to bring some excitement to the end of a life-changing year, it also highlighted the importance of humor and community in the face of adversity. By coming together and sharing in a collective moment of joy, Black Twitter users demonstrated that even in the face of uncertainty and hardship, there is always room for laughter and connection.
Verzuz Battles
One of the most exciting aspects of Black Twitter is how it brings people together through shared experiences. Few events have sparked more joy and nostalgia than the Verzuz battles. If you were unaware, Verzuz was a series of virtual music showdowns between some of the biggest names in hip-hop and R&B, created during the COVID-19 pandemic as a healthy outlet during quarantine. From Brandy vs. Monica to Jeezy vs. Gucci Mane, these battles became must-see events for music lovers everywhere. And of course, Black Twitter was at the forefront of the conversations, sharing their favorite moments, debating the winners and losers, and reveling in the nostalgia together. Whether you were a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun distraction, the Verzuz battles and the community they created were definitely a highlight.
Montgomery Riverboat Brawl
We can’t discuss Black Twitter moments without mentioning the Montgomery Riverboat Brawl. It began with a viral video showing a chaotic and violent scene on a riverboat in Alabama. As more information emerged, it became clear that the brawl started after a group of white men attacked a black worker. All hell broke loose when a group of Black partygoers noticed the commotion and intervened, leading to an all-out melee between the two groups. The video sparked outrage and calls for justice, with many on Black Twitter sharing their own experiences of racism and violence. And, true to Black Twitter form, the community managed to find humor in the situation as well.
Uno Reverse of racists using ‘DEI’
As some individuals attempt to rewrite or erase significant aspects of Black history from books, curriculums, and monuments, a similar tactic has emerged on social media concerning acronyms like DEI, which stands for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Recently, this term was co-opted by trolls on X, who twisted it to mean “Didn’t Earn It,” insinuating that minority individuals who benefit from DEI programs and initiatives haven’t truly earned their achievements. This harmful narrative sparked a backlash, prompting members of the Black community to address the disrespect and discrimination. Demonstrating resilience and creativity, Black Twitter turned the derogatory redefinition on its head by humorously incorporating “DEI” into rap lyrics, effectively reclaiming the narrative and underscoring their rightful achievements. This response not only called out the baseless claims but also highlighted the community’s ability to rise above prejudice with humor and strength.
Through these moments and many others, Black Twitter has established itself as a cultural force, providing a platform for unheard voices, sparking crucial conversations about representation and equality, and bringing people together through laughter and shared experiences. From the hilarious memes to the powerful social movements, Black Twitter has repeatedly shown that social media can be a formidable tool for change and community building. As we move forward, it’s evident that Black Twitter will continue to influence our culture and challenge us to think differently about the world around us.
