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It’s fascinating to explore how AOC and the Jay Z/Diddy #blackexcellence moment trending on Instagram right now are both part of our current zeitgeist. These are, in many ways, complete contradictions of each other though they would seem to be cut from the same cloth.
One represents a complete repudiation of billionaire mentality whereas the other not only embraces billionaire mentality but sees it as an expression of black success and progress.
This is why I find the invitation sent from @chrissyteigen to @AOC to be such a fascinating moment. A time where social capital can be leveraged and manifested in seemingly incoherent ways.
Consider this: Beyoncé’s last album, especially the song ‘Formation’ was an ode to black culture that saw capitalism as the ultimate form of success. “Always stay gracious, best revenge is your paper” is a cri de coeur for black liberation through sustainability aka wealth.
Many millennials see AOC and her policies as not only ideal but in line with progressive notions of equality that are beneficial for minorities. Those same millennials uphold beyonce, Jay Z, et al as ideal figures. This is a contradiction.
That which Beyonce declares one should aspire to, AOC declares is not only a vice but one that existentially threatens the fabric of the country. Beyonce declares that such an aspiration would better the Black community.
