From New York Post · · 1m 10s
NYC Bagel Shop Removes 'Blackface' Mascot After Influencer Video
Harlem bagel shop takes down cartoon mascot after TikTok influencer calls it 'blackface'.
In brief
Harlem bagel shop takes down cartoon mascot after TikTok influencer calls it 'blackface'. Harlem bagel shop Bo's Bagels removed its cartoon mascot after a TikTok influencer labeled it 'blackface' and faced harassment. Originally reported by New York Post.
Harlem bagel shop forced to remove mascot
A Harlem bagel shop removed a cardboard cutout of its cartoon mascot after a viral TikTok video called it a 'blackface' bagel.
“It got completely out of hand by a bunch of people who know nothing about us.”
Influencer labels mascot as 'blackface'
TikTok user Anastazia X declared the sign a 'blackface bagel' and called it 'problematic' in a video with 4,000 followers.
“It’s not funny”
Mascot design and backlash
The mascot, designed by Harlem artist Tom Sanford, featured golden grills reading 'Harlem World' and a golden ring with 'NYC' until backlash forced its removal.
“The sign’s exaggerated features, bulging lips and teeth, and darkened skin tone”
Harlem residents mixed reactions
Harlem residents had mixed opinions on the mascot, with some calling it stereotypical and others saying it wasn't racist.
“That’s not blackface”
Threats and harassment
The shop faced phone threats and harassment from influencers after the controversy, with employees told they needed to leave the business.
“You need to leave there because your owners hate you”
Owner's response
Owner Andrew Martinez said the shop was 'almost weird' to Harlem residents who support their community work and food donations.
“This is actually almost weird to us because harlemites love us”
In short
Harlem bagel shop Bo's Bagels removed its cartoon mascot after a TikTok influencer labeled it 'blackface' and faced harassment.
