Barbra Streisand Faces Criticism Over Awkward Olympic Congratulatory Post
Iconic singer and actress Barbra Streisand has found herself at the center of a social media storm after posting a congratulatory message to U.S. figure skater Alysa Liu that many critics have labeled as awkward and self-centered. The post, which Streisand shared on Instagram a day after Liu clinched the gold medal at the Milan Cortina Winter Games with a spirited free skate performance, quickly drew widespread attention and backlash for its rambling nature and perceived insensitivity.
The Controversial Instagram Message
In her now-viral post, Streisand wrote: "We were so happy to see Alysa Liu win the gold medal in Milan yesterday. My husband just showed me that in 2019 she skated to my song 'Don't Rain on My Parade'. I'm so proud of her. I heard that she is half Chinese. My second family in Brooklyn that lived above us was a Chinese family called the Choys. I worked in their Chinese restaurant since I was 12 years old and also baby sat for their children. She was like a second mother to me."
While the message began as a sincere shout-out to the Olympic champion, it took several unexpected turns that left many social media users scratching their heads. The post continued to circulate widely throughout the week, despite being shared shortly after Liu's victory.
Mixed Reactions from Fans and Critics
The response to Streisand's post was sharply divided. Some fans appeared willing to give the legendary performer the benefit of the doubt, attributing the awkwardness to what they termed "Boomerposting" - a reference to generational differences in social media communication styles.
However, many others were far less forgiving. One particularly pointed comment captured the sentiment of numerous critics: "'How do I make her gold medal winning accomplishment by an Asian woman about me?' - Barbra probably."
Another observer echoed this criticism, writing: "How can I make someone else's win about me." These comments reflected a broader perception that Streisand had shifted the focus from Liu's athletic achievement to her own personal anecdotes and experiences.
Accusations of Casual Racism
Perhaps the most serious criticism leveled against Streisand involved allegations of casual racism in her post. Several commenters took particular issue with her mention of Liu's ethnic background and the subsequent connection to her own childhood experiences with a Chinese family.
One commenter expressed their dismay: "'I heard she is half Chinese' took me out." Another offered a more detailed critique: "This is such a stupid post. 'Oh, I heard Alysa Liu is half Chinese, so let me tell you about this Chinese family I know.' WTH?"
A different perspective came from another critic who focused on the unnecessary ethnic labeling: "We love you but noting someone as half anything. She is a gold medalist. Period."
A Broader Critique of Social Media Etiquette
Beyond the specific criticisms about racial insensitivity and self-centeredness, some observers used the incident to comment on broader issues of social media etiquette. One critic posed a fundamental question that resonated with many: "Why would you think this caption is okay."
This broader takedown suggested that regardless of Streisand's intentions, the post demonstrated a significant misjudgment about appropriate ways to celebrate another person's achievement in the public sphere.
The controversy serves as a reminder of how quickly well-intentioned messages can backfire in the age of social media, particularly when public figures attempt to connect personal experiences with others' accomplishments in ways that may be perceived as inappropriate or insensitive.
