Singer Pharrell Williams, who performed his hit single "Happy" in a large, Smokey the Bear-like ranger hat at the Grammy's, continues to polarize fans with his choice of headwear, most recently offending Native Americans by wearing a headdress on the cover of Elle UK.
The Daily Mail reported that, upon the revelation of the new cover, a number of Native Americans and their allies bombarded Elle UK and Pharrell's social media accounts, explaining that the headdress and eagle feathers are sacred, and certainly not to be used casually as a fashion item.
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"Bad move Elle . . . very disrespectful, he has no business wearing that," wrote one commenter. "I'm a big fan, and I'm a Cherokee citizen. Disappointed to see you in a headdress," wrote another.
Others were not so kind.
"How can you do something so stupid and disrespectful . . . you are not a Chief . . . The eagle feathers are sacred . . . Even if you are part Native the headdress is off limits . . . It's for Warriors and people of the plains culture," someone wrote on Pharrell's Facebook fan page,
Indian Country reported.
After the outpouring of concern and consternation, Pharrell released a statement through one of his reps, apologizing for the cover.
"I respect and honor every kind of race, background,and culture. I am genuinely sorry," he
told the New York Daily News.
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