Mykki Blanco Asks Why Black Queer Narratives Always Focus on 'Struggle & Pain'

Rapper Mykki Blanco is no stranger to marginalization, as a black queer HIV+ artist navigating the largely homophobic world of hip-hop. These attributes, though key to Blanco's identity, do not define his entire being--and they especially do not piece together an inevitable narrative of pain and suffering.

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On Twitter last night, the "Loner" artist expressed his frustration with this forced archetype, speaking out about how often he needs to fight for a portrayal of normalcy. "I know you feel you have to push a narrative of 'struggle & pain' to market me, but my life is actually pretty amazing, carefee & chill," Blanco tweeted. "Being queer, black & happy is normal & natural."

Check out Blanco's important message, below.