Aretha Franklin, the legendary Queen of Soul, passed away August 16th due to advanced pancreatic cancer at the age of 76, and I believe to speak for everyone when I say this news was one of the most disheartening to hear. She was a singer/songwriter whose music spoke to millions and her funeral intended to do the same. Celebrity appearances ranging from musical to presidential and heartfelt tributes from Fantasia, Chaka Khan, The Clark Sisters, Stevie Wonder, and more made this monumental funeral a celebration of life rather than a mournful experience. Her death took a toll on all of society, and her funeral was truly an unforgettable occasion. However, when you search for highlights from Aretha Franklin’s funeral, the top story to appear is about Ariana Grande. Ariana Grande made an impactful appearance and performed her rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” Her dedication was worth a standing ovation, but for some reason all people can talk about was the short black dress she wore. Twitter went into a frenzy because people believed it was “inappropriate” and “disrespectful.”
As her performance came to an end, she began to leave the stage, but was called back by Bishop Charles H. Ellis III who wished to “thank her.” Despite the Bishop’s obvious attempts of commentary and commendation, the only thing the world can focus on was his inappropriate choice of hand placement. The pastor tightly wrapped his arm around Ariana’s waist and decided to consecutively press his hand into the right side of her chest. The dismay and discomfort Ariana felt was visually obvious and women around the world could vicariously relate to her apparent annoyance. You’d think everyone would come together to address the issue and shine light and disapproval onto the pastor’s actions, but think again. People are actually blaming Ariana for the “groping.” Others are even going as far as to say that “She got what she deserve” due to her choice in clothes. Yet again, we blame the women for the actions of a man. Yet again, we refuse to take into account the fact that apparel cannot decide approval. No, she did not “ask for it” because of her choice in wardrobe. No, she was not “disrespectful” for making an appearance in an outfit that replicates her everyday style. This situation just goes to prove that even at a funeral, women can be disrespected and objectified and somehow still come out at fault. What’s unbelievable to me is that society refuses to see the irony in this entire situation. Right after Ariana sings about the significance of being a natural woman, she is slandered and criticized for being just that: a woman who is her natural self, physically and spiritually. What I get from this is that it’s time to address the elephant in the room… “Who defines naturality?”