Snapchat Made A Terrible “Blackface” Bob Marley Filter For 4/20
A collaboration between Snapchat and the Marley Estate is bombing hard on Twitter.
Snapchat's latest filter—launched on April 20, ostensibly in celebration of what's become recognized as a holiday for cannabis culture—is a Bob Marley face mask.
In a statement to Gizmodo, Snapchat said that the filter was created in conjunction with the Marley Estate.
The lens we launched today was created in partnership with the Bob Marley Estate, and gives people a new way to share their appreciation for Bob Marley and his music. Millions of Snapchatters have enjoyed Bob Marley’s music, and we respect his life and achievements.
On Wednesday, Twitter users accused the filter of promoting blackface and butchering Marley's legacy:
The filter is not the first time the Marley family has embraced a connection between marijuana and Marley's legacy. Back in February, a line of four types of Cannabis was launched under the Marley Natural name. The line was created with funding from a private equity firm, who secured a licensing deal with the Marley family.
The FADER has reached out to a representative for the Marley Estate.