Tyla stands up for her black identity following controversial ‘Breakfast Club’ interview

After a recent interview with “The Breakfast Club,” Tyla found herself in the spotlight defending her Blackness. The controversial moment occurred when host Charlamagne Tha God questioned the 22-year-old African singer about her past reference to herself as a “Coloured” person.

During the interview, Tyla’s representative, who was off-camera, expressed discomfort with the question, leading Charlamagne to skip over it. However, the awkward exchange still made its way into the final cut of the interview. Tyla later took to social media to address the situation and clarify her identity.

In a screenshot of an iPhone note shared online, Tyla explained her heritage, stating, “Yoh guys. Never denied my blackness, idk where that came from…I’m mixed with black/Zulu, Irish, Mauritian/Indian, and Coloured.” She emphasized that while she understands the significance of the term “Coloured” outside of South Africa, she identifies as both Coloured and Black within the context of her South African heritage.

The viral moment prompted Tyla to further explain her background in a TikTok video, where she proudly displayed her Bantu knots and reiterated her pride in her heritage as a “Coloured” woman. Additionally, in a recent cover story with Cosmopolitan, Tyla addressed the controversy surrounding her identity, emphasizing that she has never denied her Blackness but simply grew up identifying as Coloured in South Africa.

Tyla’s message is clear – she embraces her diverse heritage and sees herself as both Coloured and Black. She hopes that this clarification will put to rest any misunderstandings about her identity and heritage.

It is important to understand and respect individuals’ self-identification and the complexities of their cultural backgrounds. Tyla’s experience serves as a reminder that identity is multifaceted and can encompass various ethnicities and cultural influences. By sharing her story, Tyla encourages a broader understanding and acceptance of diverse identities within society.

As the discussion surrounding Tyla’s identity continues, it is crucial to approach the topic with sensitivity and openness. By listening to individuals share their stories and perspectives, we can foster a more inclusive and understanding community where everyone’s unique heritage is celebrated.