Paris, France — A T-shirt donned by Beyoncé during her recent performance on the “Cowboy Carter” tour has ignited a significant conversation about the portrayal of American history. The shirt, worn during a concert in the French capital, prominently featured images of the Buffalo Soldiers—Black military units active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Criticism has emerged over the shirt’s message, which some view as framing Native Americans and Mexican revolutionaries in a negative light.
The shirt’s back displayed a detailed description of the Buffalo Soldiers and their adversaries, including terms like “warring Indians, bandits, cattle thieves, and Mexican revolutionaries.” This depiction has drawn ire from various social media users, particularly Indigenous activists and scholars, who argue it perpetuates harmful narratives about marginalized communities. As Beyoncé approaches a series of performances back in her hometown of Houston, the backlash appears to be intensifying.
A representative for Beyoncé has not yet commented on the controversy. The Buffalo Soldiers, formed in 1866, played a complex role in American history. Composed of formerly enslaved individuals and Black Civil War veterans, they fought in numerous conflicts, including the Spanish-American War and both World Wars, until their disbandment in 1951. Their history is intricately tied to the westward expansion of the United States, during which they participated in conflicts against Native Americans.
Historians note that while the nickname “Buffalo Soldiers” may have originated from Indigenous tribes that admired their courage, it remains a topic of debate. Cale Carter, director of exhibitions at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston, emphasized the need for museums to present a nuanced view of this history, acknowledging the soldiers’ involvement in acts of violence against Indigenous peoples.
Michelle Tovar, the museum’s education director, echoed this sentiment, noting that there are increasing challenges in presenting honest discussions of American history due to current political climates, particularly in states like Texas. She expressed a commitment to use the museum as a space for community learning and dialogue, regardless of educational restrictions.
Beyoncé’s latest album, “Act II: Cowboy Carter,” has been interpreted as an effort to reclaim the cowboy narrative for Black Americans, juxtaposing it against a backdrop of systemic white dominance in country music. Although her portrayal may evoke national pride, some historians caution that it overlooks the darker aspects of history tied to the Buffalo Soldiers and their role in imperial expansion.
As criticism mounts online, several Indigenous voices have responded with pointed commentary. Prominent figures in social media have questioned whether Beyoncé will address the backlash. Critics argue that historical figures like the Buffalo Soldiers should be approached with a clear understanding of their actions in relation to Indigenous and Mexican communities.
Chisom Okorafor, a digital commentator, articulated a common frustration, asserting there is no way to portray America’s past as purely positive. She warned that embracing Western symbolism without acknowledging its roots sends a damaging message about nationalism and identity. Okorafor contended that this narrative suggests that Black Americans can also take part in, and benefit from, the nation’s historical transgressions.
As the dialogue continues, it becomes increasingly evident that the complexities of American history require careful consideration and sensitivity, particularly when harnessed by influential figures like Beyoncé. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for honest conversations regarding historical representation and the legacies that shape contemporary dialogues about race, identity, and nationalism.