Snapchat Rolls Out Ill-Advised Bob Marley Filter For 4/20
In celebration of 4/20, the popular social media app Snapchat decided to provide its users with an ill-advised “Bob Marley” filter. Users can overlay their face with a caricatured version of Marley, which is pretty gross for a few reasons. First off, the filter automatically puts you in blackface. The second, equally appalling reason the filter is causing controversy today is the fact that Marley — who was an activist and freedom fighter in every sense of the word — is being remembered simply as a weed mascot.
This, America, is what you've molded @bobmarley's legacy into. Smdh at @Snapchat. pic.twitter.com/rUuqJTbKeM
— Christine Imarenezor (@eboseta) April 20, 2016
A Snapchat spokesperson made the following comment to Gizmodo after they published an article condemning the filter:
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.
