Exploitation Unmasked

Renowned Griselda rapper Westside Gunn has consistently been a strong supporter of the WWE. While many hip-hop artists have historically referenced and appeared in WWE, Westside Gunn's influence has significantly impacted wrestling culture. Beyond his well-known references, album covers, sound bites, and more in the music industry, Gunn has invested millions of dollars in tickets, merchandise, and other promotional elements of the sport.

Westside Gunn wrote in a very long and transparent post explaining the treatment he has endured from the company:

In this tweet, he delves into what WWE meant to him as a fan and expresses his deep admiration for the company. He reflects on his younger self and shares his intentions. This perspective comes from someone who believed they were using their platform to support an industry to which they feel a sentimental connection, and for him, it was a mutually beneficial relationship. What truly stands out in Gunn's post is the mistreatment he experienced. It's unsurprising that Gunn faces backlash for not submitting to the demands of the profit-driven corporation. However, the WWE's ongoing lack of awareness in addressing their Black fans is notable..

Capitalism relies on exploitation to succeed. The individuals making the ultimate decisions in boardrooms often lack the urgency to engage with their consumers. Many of these investors and executives take pride in being disconnected from the world they eagerly wish to dominate. This is true across all sectors, but it is perhaps most egregious in the entertainment industry.

Companies recognize that Black Americans often set trends simply by being true to themselves. Authenticity is a key aspect of many Black Americans' identities because, throughout much of history in this country, their identities had to be suppressed to survive. Therefore, when they unapologetically support someone or something, it is perceived as "cool." This authenticity is also a means of survival in many ways. However, when things become overly popular, they often lose their original essence, as the audience becomes displaced and forgotten. The spaces created for authentic expression are compromised by those seeking to appropriate an identity.

I recognized that my enthusiasm for WWE turned problematic when I learned that my favorite wrestler was being exploited and mistreated. While many wrestling fans are drawn in by the characters and storylines, a closer look reveals numerous inconsistencies within the company. Booker T, the first wrestler I followed who introduced me to the sport, shared how his moves were adopted by another wrestler who rose to greater fame in the industry (The Rock).

https://youtube.com/shorts/_G9pxC5x9tk?si=WWNYeDmYm4PP5YaV

Westside Gunn attracted a new wave of fans and rejuvenated the company's image, only for the company to reject his endorsement of their brand. They went so far as to send cease and desist letters to prevent him from integrating his appreciation for the company into his own art.

For Black men, especially those with a platform, what steps can we take as consumers to avoid these situations? This question has persisted since we achieved freedom. While we are frequently appreciated as creative directors, influencers, and advocates, does genuine power lie solely in ownership? Are we only able to support what we create? Can we adopt the ideas of our oppressors without encountering backlash and exploitation?