Alicia Keys announced in late May that she planned to go makeup-free. The singer attended events such as the Black Entertainment Television (BET) Awards in June, the Democratic National Convention in July, and promotions for NBC’s The Voice makeup-free. Despite these no-makeup appearances, Keys did not receive national backlash until she appeared on stage at the Video Music Awards (VMA) on Aug. 28.

Many students who watched the VMAs became part of a worldwide conversation about makeup after Alicia Keys attended the event without makeup. This triggered backlash from the media, accusing her of being anti-makeup.

Although some viewers believed Keys’ makeup-free look was empowering and inspiring, other media outlets, such as The Washington Post, claimed that the movement is not as brave as it sounds.

“The media shines so much light on Alicia Keys’ campaign because it completely breaks societal conventions,” said junior Cristalle Choi. “I believe that instead of the media covering the campaign in a negative light, it should instead be embracing it because of its wonderful mission.”

Keys responded to the criticism from the media and the general public about her makeup-free movement, tweeting, “Y’all, me choosing to be makeup free doesn’t mean I’m anti-makeup. Do you!” with a photo of her bare face. 

Keys’ response on Twitter has resonated among SHS students who feel as though they too are judged on their appearance. 

Many people, regardless of age, are familiar with the pressure to maintain a standard of personal appearance, leading them to stand alongside Keys in this issue.

“I feel the need to wear makeup everyday so I can be confident.” said junior Paula Le. “I can’t imagine what she’s going through considering she’s going bare-face in front of the entire world.” 

“Students may choose to stand with her because many people are tired of being told via the media what is ‘beautiful.'” said Mrs. Broder, the IB Psychology teacher. “There’s a large movement nowadays towards acceptance of our bodies and feeling comfortable in our skin.  Alicia Keys embodies that movement with her simple, makeup-free statement.”

Many agree that Keys and all members of the general population, including students, should not feel obliged to wear makeup to satisfy an audience, just as no one should feel ashamed for putting in extra effort to make themselves feel good.

“Alicia Keys should be encouraged, embraced, and appreciated for all of her hard efforts,” said Choi. “I stand with her mission and so should the media.”