Beyoncé Faces Backlash Over Buffalo Soldiers Shirt

During a Juneteenth performance in Paris on her “Cowboy Carter” tour, Beyoncé wore a T-shirt featuring the Buffalo Soldiers that sparked controversy for describing Native Americans and Mexican revolutionaries as “enemies of peace.” The back of the shirt included historical language that critics say promotes anti-Indigenous sentiment.

Shirt’s Language Draws Criticism from Indigenous Communities

Images of the shirt, also seen on Beyoncé’s website, ignited social media backlash. Indigenous influencers and fans expressed disappointment that the pop star used imagery that glorifies U.S. imperialism and frames Native resistance as criminal. A spokesperson for Beyoncé has not responded to the criticism.

Who Were the Buffalo Soldiers?

Buffalo Soldiers were Black U.S. Army troops formed after the Civil War in 1866. They served in various wars, including World War I and II, but also participated in U.S. military campaigns against Indigenous tribes during westward expansion. While once celebrated for bravery, historians are now reexamining their role in suppressing Native populations.

Houston Museum Pushes for Historical Nuance

At the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston, staff are working to present a more balanced account of the soldiers’ legacy. Director Cale Carter said romanticized narratives often overlook their role in violence against Native Americans. Education director Michelle Tovar noted schools are increasingly reluctant to teach the complex history, leaving museums to fill the gap.

Artists and Historians React to Beyoncé’s Symbolism

Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album reclaims American cowboy imagery for Black Americans. Historians like Tad Stoermer say her use of Buffalo Soldier symbolism is intentional but also reinforces myths of U.S. nationalism. Scholar Alaina E. Roberts emphasized that while the imagery may aim to empower, it can’t ignore the soldiers’ role in Indigenous oppression.

Online Outcry Grows Ahead of Houston Shows

As Beyoncé prepares to perform in her hometown, Native influencers and educators continue calling for accountability. Some say her tour reinforces the idea that Black Americans can also participate in American nationalism at the expense of immigrants and Indigenous people. TikTok user Chisom Okorafor criticized the symbolism as promoting pride in empire rather than solidarity with marginalized communities.