Black TikTok Creators Protest Appropriation Of Dance Trends By Going On 'Strike'

Black TikTokers are highlighting how their work is co-opted by white creators, often without credit or compensation.

Some Black TikTok creators have refused to choreograph moves to a new song in an effort to show how essential they are to the platform and demonstrate how their work is co-opted by white creators. Megan Thee Stallion’s new song “Thot Shit” has all the trappings of a smash summer dance hit. Some of her previous hits, like “Body” and “Savage,” have been soundtracks for viral TikTok dance trends designed by Black creatives. Yet, in the absence of captivating choreography, no viral dance has emerged since the June 11 release of “Thot Shit” ― which even outlines moves in the lyrics.