Context: Attacks on Cynthia Erivo and SZA’s ⁢Response

Singer SZA has publicly condemned ‍what she describes as “classic misogynoir” following a wave of online harassment directed at actress Cynthia Erivo. Erivo, who stars in the musical Wicked, has been the target of intense criticism from some fans, prompting SZA’s⁢ vocal support. This statement from SZA emerged alongside renewed discussion surrounding the 2020 shooting involving megan Thee Stallion and Tory Lanez.

The Lanez Case and New Testimony Claims

SZA’s remarks⁢ stem from a claim ‍made by Unite ⁢the People, a nonprofit institution advocating for social justice and affordable legal services in⁤ California. On May 14, 2024, during ⁣a press conference,⁤ Walter Roberts, identified as the organization’s “lead consultant,” stated that new testimony could potentially exonerate Tory Lanez.

According to Roberts,⁣ Bradley James identified ⁢himself as ‍the bodyguard and‍ driver for Kelsey Harris, a key witness and a former friend of Megan Thee Stallion. The implication is that james’s testimony could challenge Harris’s previous statements given during the trial. The specifics of James’s potential testimony have not been publicly released in detail.

Lanez was‍ convicted in December 2022 of shooting Megan Thee Stallion in the feet in July 2020. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison in August 2023. He ⁤is currently‍ appealing his conviction. Rolling stone ⁤provides comprehensive coverage of⁤ the case and its timeline.

Understanding “Misogynoir”

SZA’s use of the term “misogynoir” highlights a specific form of prejudice. Coined ‍by activist Moya Bailey, misogynoir refers to the unique discrimination faced by Black women, which combines elements of⁢ racism and⁣ sexism. It manifests as specific biases, stereotypes, and acts of violence directed towards Black women that are often distinct from those experienced by white women or⁣ Black men.

The online attacks against Cynthia