Mermaids are one of the ocean's greatest (fictional) wonders. Between their colorful fins, powerful tridents, and innate ability to seduce men to their deaths, it's no wonder why mermaids have fascinated people around the world for centuries.
Popular culture's vision of mermaids is especially interesting. For instance, Disney imagined "The Little Mermaid" as white with hair flowing down her back, taut abs, and a shell bra. Her underwater world is populated by talking fish, singing lobsters, and other beautiful mermaids — none of whom are Black, Latina, or Asian. Still, Ariel, the most recognizable mermaid in pop culture, has since become the standard.
This focus on white mermaids ignores an entire canon of Black folklore populated with water divinities, like Yemaya and Mami Wata. Even Beyoncé has noticed: It's not accidental that she went underwater in "Lemonade" or for her recent maternity shoot.
A legion of Black merpeople are following in Beyoncé's footsteps by reclaiming the sea.
Here are 12 Black mermaids who are making underwater life more inclusive:
She better beach in orange fins!
The gold accessories are absolutely stunning.
Yes, Black mermen exist too.
With that trident and that multicolored fin, she's clearly the queen of the sea!
Afro-clad mermaids are the best mermaids.
Ariel's got nothing on her.
Have you ever seen a mermaid flyer than her?
The mermaid who will set your heart aflutter.
Crown her, immediately.
A plant bra is as cute as a sea shell bra, to be honest.
Basking in the glow of her dopeness, as she should.
Yes, going under the sea is *this* fun!
