The Conversation (0)
Breanna Robinson
Nov 30, 2021
A Black woman on TikTok said she went to an Airbnb that had a cotton field - and it sparked a fierce online debate.
In a recent video, Aliyah Bell, who goes by @thechocolateweeb on the platform, showed the cotton field in question.
“Y’all why did my cousin book this Airbnb in Alabama with a cotton field in the yard?” the onscreen text said as Bell appeared to look flabbergasted.
In the video’s caption, she noted that her cousin was unaware that the rental had a cotton field in the backyard.
The video now has over 19 million views.
@thechocolateweeb She didn’t know but like 😩 how do I find myself In these places #fypシ #blacktiktokcommunity #foryoupage
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In another video, Bell gave a tour of the property located in Hunstville, Alabama. She noted that she went there to celebrate Thanksgiving with her family.
“It’s pretty decent inside… the theme was nice,” Bell said before adding that she’s from California and isn’t “used to seeing” the cotton or cotton field.
“Being put in an area like that unexpectedly as a Black person does trigger you a little bit and makes you feel uncomfortable,” she added.
She also noted that feeling the “urge” to pick the cotton isn’t “weird” or an indication of wanting to “go back to slavery.”
“It’s an odd feeling that you feel so close to history.”
@thechocolateweeb I said curious, don’t take me out of context😅 But I’m not going to lie the demeanor of the neighborhood made me a little uncomfortable🤔
Bell received several comments from people who were “uncomfortable” by the scene.
“The fact that ppl don’t see why this is uncomfortable,” someone wrote.
“It’s gatta be very much haunted with curses and bad energy. I’m concerned,” another added.
Others thought it wasn’t that “deep” and that cotton is just “a crop.”
“If you seek racism, you will find it. It’s a crop and you’re trying to get people banned from Airbnb for something that isn’t even on there,” a third wrote.
Someone else wrote, “If y’all are really that pressed about a plant that’s used to make your clothes, you need help.”
This comment prompted Bell to make another follow-up video dubbed with the “You really thought you ate” audio by THE INFINITY CULT.
Indy100 reached out to Bell and Airbnb for comment