Who Needs to Calm Down? Taylor Swift and Rainbow Capitalism

What is it about?

Eric Smialek's article, "Who Needs to Calm Down? Taylor Swift and Rainbow Capitalism," explores the tensions surrounding Taylor Swift’s LGBTQ allyship, particularly through the lens of her 2019 song and music video, "You Need to Calm Down." Smialek examines accusations that Swift’s advocacy is performative, commodified, or conflates LGBTQ discrimination with her personal struggles. Using statements from critics, social-media posts, and Swift’s documentary Miss Americana, Smialek disentangles constructive critiques from misogynistic or conspiratorial claims about Swift’s intentions. He also situates the criticisms within broader societal narratives about gender, power, and cultural representation, revealing how female artists often face amplified scrutiny.

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Photo by Stephen Mease on Unsplash

Photo by Stephen Mease on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This article highlights the complexities of celebrity allyship, especially when intersecting with issues of gender and commerce. By analyzing both the valid critiques and unwarranted attacks on Swift, Smialek advocates for a more nuanced understanding of how public figures engage with social causes. He underscores the importance of recognizing the positive impact of such advocacy, while also holding it to a standard that reflects the needs of marginalized communities. KEY TAKEAWAY: Smialek argues that criticisms of Taylor Swift’s LGBTQ allyship often reveal deeper societal biases against young women in positions of power, conflating their artistic and political contributions with personal motives, and calls for a more balanced critique that separates genuine concerns from misogynistic tendencies.

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