Micheal B. Jordan accused of cultural appropriation over his ‘J’Ouvert’ rum
Black Panther star Michael B. Jordan has been accused of cultural appropriation after he launched a rum with the name J’Ouvert.
Residents from the twin-island republic of Trinidad and Tobago have been up in arms after the product came out over the weekend with reference to the island’s history and culture in its packaging.
The rum was launched in a box set which includes a number of other items like Angostura Bitters and a recipe for a J’Ouvert laced cocktail.
According to reports, a trademark application has been filed for the word J’Ouvert with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). But this news did not sit well with some Trinidadians despite unconfirmed reports that a Trinidadian is part owner of the venture.
As is expected persons have taken to Twitter to voice their displeasure.
Wait… Micheal B Jordan is trying to copyright/trademark the word Jouvert???? This cannot run! A whole word used in caribbean culture for eons??? gtfoh— Tiffers (@ichenique)
Wait… Micheal B Jordan is trying to copyright/trademark the word Jouvert???? This cannot run! A whole word used in caribbean culture for eons??? gtfoh— Tiffers (@ichenique) June 20, 2021
Question… Micheal B Jordan ever play a mas far less a j’ouvert? Ÿ˜Ÿ˜‚ serious question— Micheal B Columbus (@Lylakins)
Question… Micheal B Jordan ever play a mas far less a j’ouvert? Ÿ˜Ÿ˜‚ serious question— Micheal B Columbus (@Lylakins) June 20, 2021
Has Micheal B Jordan ever even been to carnival? Dafuq?— soft juicy bae (@trishfiya)
Has Micheal B Jordan ever even been to carnival? Dafuq?— soft juicy bae (@trishfiya) June 20, 2021
Also what is this i see about Micheal B jordan funny looking ass making rum?!?!— ⚡︟‡¹Ÿ‡¹GriseldaBlanco (@Chadychanel)
Also what is this i see about Micheal B jordan funny looking ass making rum?!?!— ⚡︟‡¹Ÿ‡¹GriseldaBlanco (@Chadychanel) June 20, 2021
J’Ouvert has been a big part of Trinidad Carnival for years. However, it is also a familiar event in other Caribbean territories and even in the international space during their respective Carnival seasons.
It’s uncertain if there has been a response from the actor or his team at the moment. However, some residents are calling on the government to address the matter.
Jordan is known for his roles in Creed and the Black Panther movie where he played the role of ‘Killmonger’ opposite the now-deceased Chadwick Boseman.Â
