Lady Gaga and Dylan Mulvaney Face Backlash Over International Women’s Day Photo
3 min read
Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images | Andrew Toth/FilmMagic
American singer Lady Gaga and transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney found themselves under fire after posting a joint photo on their social media accounts to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024. The photo, part of a joint photoshoot, featured Lady Gaga sitting on a chair while Mulvaney, a transgender woman, stood behind her, hugging her.
The backlash stemmed from conservative criticism of Mulvaney’s participation in a sponsorship campaign with the beer brand Bud Light. However, this time, the criticism extended to Lady Gaga as well, with many netizens engaging in debates about the definition of a “real woman.”
Lady Gaga, a long-time advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has been vocal about her support for the community. She has consistently used her platform to promote inclusivity and diversity, aiming to mainstream gay culture. Similarly, Mulvaney has been documenting her gender transition journey on TikTok since early 2022 and has been actively involved in advocating for transgender rights.
The joint photo shared by Lady Gaga and Mulvaney featured them both dressed in black outfits, with Lady Gaga donning a long woolen dress while Mulvaney wore a short dress with sequins and tassels, paired with black stockings. The accompanying caption from Mulvaney read, “Happy International Women’s Day 👯♀️💓 @ladygaga,” expressing solidarity and celebration of womanhood.
“I promise you, if you put your mind to it, and you work hard, and you never give up, and you do not listen to the rejection, you can achieve anything that life throws your way.”
— Billboard Chris 🇨🇦🇺🇸 (@BillboardChris) March 9, 2024
Lady Gaga celebrated Dylan Mulvaney for International Women’s Day. pic.twitter.com/EoCgMsJHCh
However, the post quickly drew negative attention, with some users leaving homophobic comments and questioning Mulvaney’s identity as a woman. Comments ranged from questioning Mulvaney’s appearance to outright denial of her gender identity.
Lady Gaga, in response to the hateful comments, posted a lengthy caption on her Instagram, condemning the bigotry and expressing her support for Mulvaney and the transgender community. She emphasized the need for society to create space for transgender lives to be cherished and upheld, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by the community.
Lady Gaga posted a statement about the hateful comments received under her recent picture with Dylan Mulvaney: "This is not backlash. This is hatred." pic.twitter.com/UkwYGf3zwD
— Lady Gaga Now 🃏 (@ladygaganownet) March 11, 2024
Despite the backlash, Lady Gaga’s message of support resonated with many, garnering support from fans and allies alike. However, Mulvaney has yet to address the matter publicly.
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing discrimination faced by transgender individuals, even from those who claim to support diversity and inclusivity. It highlights the importance of continuing efforts to educate and advocate for acceptance and understanding of transgender experiences.
As Lady Gaga and Mulvaney navigate the fallout from the controversy, their joint photo remains a symbol of solidarity and defiance against bigotry, reaffirming the importance of standing up for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of gender identity.
Look at that hand comparison 💀💀 pic.twitter.com/PNHcENovu1
— JosiahRises 🔥 (@JosiahRises) March 9, 2024
Look at Lady Gaga’s expressions and body language. She knows she is hugging a man and talking to a man. The body language is very clear. Everyone knows Dylan is grifting, lying, misogynistic man…
— STC__STC__STC 🇺🇸 (@stcampbell01) March 9, 2024
Gaslighting nonsense. They can keep throwing this rubbish at us but people are increasingly revolted by it.
— Janeo 🟥 (@woozel7) March 9, 2024
Disgusting and repulsive…both of them!! 🤮
— queen ann (@kimamfb) March 9, 2024
How disgusting she is celebrating an man in a dress as a woman as an achievement. She is now a danger to children.,
— TLuke (@LucariniTh61350) March 9, 2024
Such disrespect for women.
— Stirred 🏴☠️ (@istirred) March 9, 2024
The clown world we live in.
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
