Beyoncé's Juneteenth T-Shirt Sparks Debate on Buffalo Soldiers and American Nationalism
June 29, 2025
Beyoncé recently faced backlash for wearing a T-shirt during her Juneteenth performance that labeled Native Americans as 'enemies of peace' in relation to the history of Buffalo Soldiers.
Social media users, including Chisom Okorafor, highlighted the necessity of acknowledging the violent history tied to the Buffalo Soldiers.
Okorafor argues that there is no progressive way to reinterpret America's history of empire building, suggesting that Beyoncé's imagery connects Black identity with American nationalism.
This social media backlash has ignited discussions about the implications of Black Americans engaging in narratives of American nationalism, especially in light of the historical oppression faced by Indigenous peoples.
Scholars caution that utilizing Buffalo Soldiers imagery without proper context risks romanticizing American imperialism and overlooks the violence suffered by Indigenous communities.
In response to these discussions, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum has begun to incorporate more nuanced narratives regarding the soldiers' roles in subjugating Indigenous populations.
This ongoing dialogue reflects a broader challenge within American education and museums, which struggle to portray history honestly, particularly regarding marginalized communities.
Summary based on 19 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Jun 29, 2025
Beyoncé faces backlash after wearing shirt with anti-Indigenous language
NBC News • Jun 29, 2025
Fans criticize Beyoncé for shirt calling Native Americans 'the enemies of peace'
The Independent • Jun 29, 2025
Beyoncé is being accused of villainising Native Americans for a shirt worn on her Cowboy Carter tour in Paris
Hindustan Times • Jun 29, 2025
Fans criticize Beyoncé for shirt calling Native Americans 'the enemies of peace' - Hindustan Times