The phrase 'White Boy Summer' started as a playful and inclusive celebration but has since been co-opted by hate groups, leading to a firm denouncement from its creator, Chet Hanks.
- July 5, 2024
AceShowbiz - Chet Hanks, the rapper and son of Hollywood legends Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, initially coined the term "White Boy Summer" in a light-hearted nod to Megan Thee Stallion's "Hot Girl Summer." What was meant to celebrate "fly white boys who love beautiful queens of every race" quickly spiraled into a phrase appropriated by white supremacist groups.
In response, Chet has taken to social media to distance himself and condemn this twisted usage. "I hope that we all can spread love to each other and treat each other with kindness and dignity," he emphasized in a recent Instagram post.
Hanks' disavowal comes on the heels of a report from the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism (GPAHE), which highlighted the troubling evolution of "White Boy Summer" into a slogan weaponized by far-right hate groups to spread propaganda and incite violence. GPAHE noted that terms like "White Boy Summer" and its acronym "WBS" have seen increasing usage among extremist circles on platforms such as Telegram.
Despite the backlash, Hanks has been unwavering in clarifying his original intent. He openly declared that the phrase was not aimed at "Trump, NASCAR-type white" people and laid down rules for participation that strictly excluded any form of prejudice or ill will towards others. "That's the sh*t we gotta elevate and get rid of, straight up," he stated, reaffirming the need for inclusivity and good vibes.
The controversy surrounding "White Boy Summer" isn't new for Hanks. The musician has previously faced criticism for cultural appropriation, particularly for his use of a Jamaican patois accent, a behavior he has defended by questioning why the blending of cultures often results in accusations of theft rather than celebration.
However, the transformation of his phrase by hate groups has pushed Hanks to assertively call out and distance himself from these appropriations.
Chet Hanks' story serves as a cautionary tale about the unpredictable journey of social media trends and the power of words. While his vision of a fun, inclusive "White Boy Summer" might have been altered, his vocal disapproval underscores the importance of context and intention in public discourse. As summer approaches, the rapper remains hopeful that the term can regain its original, positive meaning.
