Tisha Ramirez in Culture

‘Esquire’ made a mistake with their “American Boy” cover

The Internet has been blowing up, and not for a good reason. For their March issue, Esquire decided to put a 17-year-old White boy on the cover. This story is launching their new series entitled “Growing Up in America Today.” The article itself focuses on Ryan Morgan and how he lives his daily life from dealing with politics in school, getting into fights on social media, and playing video games. Editor in chief Jay Fielden also wrote an editor’s letter to accompany it. He explained that the way kids grown up now is completely different compared to his time. Especially with society becoming more woke and aware with what’s happening. This is what inspired the series. Other kids “Black, LGBTQ, female” will eventually come up in later issues.

That’s what we know so far. Read the full feature to get a better idea of why people are triggered. Esquire might have had good intentions but they honestly missed the mark with this one. Netizens pointed out that for Black History Month, this was not a good move for them.

Also, reading about Ryan defending Trump is very problematic. He did say, “He is respectful towards his wife, as far as I know. I don’t think he is racist or sexist.” I mean, growing up in republican household isn’t your fault but not educating yourself is on you. Please, be updated with the news.

One person even gave an alternative cover boy, his nephew. “Darian is an honor student hoping to go to Morehouse next year. At 17, he’s had to contend with more than most, including having to leave home because of his sexuality. HE is a representation of America!”

Honestly, while reading the feature, we thought it was satire because there is no way someone would actually put this as a cover story. Sadly, we were wrong. What do you guys think? Did Esquire just make a major booboo?

Photo courtesy of Breakin It Down To The Tea’s Instagram account

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