Ex-Teacher Sparks Controversy with Claims of Trauma from Sydney Sweeney Ad: Here’s What Happened

A former New Jersey teacher turned lifestyle influencer is facing backlash online. She recently shared her feelings about Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad, expressing that it made her feel unattractive due to her skin color. Many on social media have reacted strongly, some calling her a “professional victim.”

In a viral Instagram video, Payal Desai, who grew up in a predominantly white community, shared her experience. She said, “I can’t help but think about the 13-year-old brown girl who gets her denim at American Eagle. It’s hard to see your own beauty in a world that celebrates Eurocentric standards.”

This clip was quickly reshared by media personality Colin Rugg, who commented on her perspective, garnering over 10.6 million views and a wave of negative responses. One user remarked, “If your self-worth crumbles at the sight of Sydney Sweeney in jeans, the issue isn’t whiteness; it’s you.”

The online discourse highlights a broader issue: the struggle with beauty standards in a diverse society. According to recent surveys, nearly 70% of women of color have reported feeling underrepresented in media. This can lead to feelings of low self-esteem that last into adulthood. Desai emphasized that her experience isn’t unique; others have similar stories shaped by their environments.

Despite the criticism, Desai reiterated her point about the difficulty of growing up as a person of color in the U.S. She explained, “I wished I could just fit in, even wanting to change my name. The ad isn’t just a simple campaign; it carries deeper implications for those who feel marginalized.”

This isn’t the first time Desai has sparked conversation online. Her previous TikTok series, where she teaches her sons about respect and empathy, also gained millions of views. She aims to challenge norms and encourage deeper discussions about identity and beauty.

Overall, this situation showcases how advertisements can stir strong emotions and discussions about representation and self-worth. It’s a reminder that beauty standards affect many people differently, and conversations like these are essential for fostering understanding and growth in society.

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