The 25 Black Celebs Who Blocked #BlackLivesMatter Critics

Social media has become a primary battleground for civil rights activism and celebrity engagement. Many famous figures have used their massive platforms to advocate for racial justice and to amplify the message that Black Lives Matter. This advocacy often attracts a wave of trolls and critics who flood comment sections with “All Lives Matter” rhetoric or hateful speech. The following celebrities decided they had zero tolerance for such negativity and famously shut down or blocked those who opposed the movement.

Rihanna

Rihanna has never been shy about using her platform to advocate for social justice or to silence detractors. When hashtags opposing the movement began circulating on her social media pages, the singer made her stance incredibly clear. She famously blocked fans and followers who posted anti-movement rhetoric or told her to stick to music. Her actions demonstrated that she values her principles over retaining followers who do not share her commitment to racial equality. This zero-tolerance policy solidified her reputation as a celebrity who refuses to entertain ignorance.

John Legend

John Legend is well known for his active presence on Twitter where he frequently debates social and political issues. The EGOT winner has consistently dismantled arguments from critics who try to undermine the Black Lives Matter message. He has stated that he happily blocks users who spew hate or try to distract from the core issues of police brutality. Legend often uses his music and public appearances to further amplify the voices of activists. His digital footprint is a testament to his willingness to engage with and shut down opposition.

Ava DuVernay

Filmmaker Ava DuVernay uses her art and her social media to highlight systemic injustice. The director of ‘Selma’ (2014) frequently engages with detractors who question the necessity of the movement or attack her projects. She curates her timeline aggressively to ensure it remains a safe space for dialogue rather than abuse. DuVernay has publicly encouraged others to mute or block trolls to preserve their mental health. Her work continuously centers Black narratives and challenges the status quo.

Jesse Williams

Jesse Williams delivered a humanitarian award acceptance speech at the BET Awards that went viral for its blunt assessment of racial inequality. Following the speech, he faced significant backlash and petitions from critics demanding he be fired from ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. Williams responded by doubling down on his statements and dismissing the critics on social media. He frequently uses his platform to share information about systemic racism and ignores those who demand he stay silent. His activism is integral to his public persona.

Zendaya

Zendaya often uses her massive platform to educate her younger fanbase about the realities of racial injustice. When users have commented with “All Lives Matter” on her posts, she has taken the time to explain why the phrase is harmful. However, she also does not hesitate to shut down conversation when it becomes toxic or hateful. The actress has stated that she feels a responsibility to use her privilege to amplify marginalized voices. Her approach balances education with firm boundaries against intolerance.

Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj has been vocal about the double standards present in the music industry and society at large. She has used Twitter to call out media outlets and individuals who attempt to silence Black voices. The rapper is known for directly quoting and shaming critics who attack her or the movement. Her loyal fanbase often follows her lead in blocking and reporting accounts that spread hate speech. Minaj remains unapologetic about her stance and her defense of Black culture.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union has long been an advocate for survivors of violence and a supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement. She frequently uses her social media channels to speak out against police brutality and systemic racism. Union has made it clear that she has no patience for those who deny these realities. She actively filters her comments and blocks users who bring negativity to her page. Her advocacy often intersects with her support for LGBTQ+ rights within the Black community.

Solange Knowles

Solange Knowles released ‘A Seat at the Table’ (2016) as a sonic exploration of Black grief and healing. She eventually left Twitter completely in 2017 to protect her peace after facing a barrage of racism from critics. Before her departure, she was incredibly vocal about the need for safe spaces for Black people. Her decision to remove herself from a toxic environment was a powerful statement in itself. She continues to advocate through her visual art and music.

LeBron James

LeBron James is one of the most visible athletes in the world and consistently uses his influence to demand justice. When told to “shut up and dribble” by critics, he ramped up his activism and production of socially conscious content. James frequently ignores the noise from detractors who want him to stick to sports. He founded the More Than A Vote organization to combat voter suppression in Black communities. His resilience against criticism has inspired a new generation of athlete-activists.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe blends science fiction and social justice in her music to address the plight of the marginalized. She has led protests and released protest anthems like ‘Hell You Talmbout’ which lists the names of victims of police violence. Monáe actively blocks negativity on her social media to maintain a focus on joy and liberation. She challenges her followers to have uncomfortable conversations about race. Her advocacy is inclusive and intersectional.

Cardi B

Cardi B uses her unfiltered Instagram videos to discuss politics and social inequality with millions of followers. She frequently calls out politicians and critics who dismiss the struggles of Black Americans. The rapper does not hesitate to clap back at or block users who leave hateful comments on her posts. Her candid approach has made complex political topics accessible to a broad audience. She remains a staunch defender of her community despite constant scrutiny.

Ice-T

Ice-T is legendary for his Twitter presence where he engages with fans and trolls alike. The ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ star has a low tolerance for racism and frequently exposes hateful tweets to his followers. He uses humor and blunt facts to dismantle anti-BLM arguments before blocking the offenders. His long history of addressing police brutality in music gives him significant credibility. He refuses to be silenced by anonymous internet critics.

Don Cheadle

Don Cheadle is a fierce advocate for human rights and climate change awareness on social media. He spends a considerable amount of time debating and debunking false narratives regarding the Black Lives Matter movement. Cheadle is known for his quick wit and willingness to block those who argue in bad faith. He protects his digital space aggressively while amplifying important causes. His activism is thoughtful, persistent, and unyielding.

Yvette Nicole Brown

Yvette Nicole Brown uses her voice to champion kindness and social justice in equal measure. She is notoriously quick to block trolls who harass her or others regarding political stances. The actress refers to her block list as a way to keep her timeline positive and focused on the work. She frequently mobilizes her followers to vote and support civil rights organizations. Brown proves that one can be kind while still being firm against injustice.

Lizzo

Lizzo promotes self-love and inclusivity but draws a hard line when it comes to racism and oppression. She has used her platform to speak eloquently about the history of protest and the necessity of Black Lives Matter. The singer blocks critics who try to police her body or her political views. She emphasizes that her music is Black music and her existence is a form of resistance. Her joy is a radical act in the face of systemic hate.

Chance the Rapper

Chance the Rapper has done extensive work on the ground in Chicago to support public schools and mental health services. He frequently speaks out against police violence and the criminal justice system. When critics attack his stances, he often responds with facts before disengaging. He prioritizes tangible community building over arguing with internet trolls. His activism is deeply rooted in his faith and his hometown.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan has portrayed victims of injustice in films like ‘Fruitvale Station’ (2013) and ‘Just Mercy’ (2019). He brought that energy to real life when he spoke at a protest in Los Angeles about hiring Black talent. Jordan challenged the industry to do better and ignored critics who called the move performative. He uses his production company to ensure diverse storytelling. His commitment extends beyond hashtags to structural change in Hollywood.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx has been a vocal supporter of the movement since the death of Trayvon Martin. He frequently attends rallies and uses his social media to demand accountability for police officers. Foxx ignores the backlash from those who believe celebrities should remain apolitical. He famously wore a t-shirt honoring George Floyd to a peaceful protest in San Francisco. His consistent presence shows he is not afraid of losing fans over human rights.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis uses her status as an EGOT winner to speak on the inequities Black women face in Hollywood and society. She shares educational resources and images related to the movement on her Instagram. Davis limits comments and blocks negativity to ensure her message reaches those willing to listen. She believes that living her truth is more important than catering to comfort. Her activism is dignified and powerful.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington acts as an amplifier for many social justice organizations through her social media channels. She frequently collaborates with activists to bring attention to systemic racism and voter suppression. Washington engages with her fans but swiftly dismisses bad-faith actors who try to derail the conversation. She utilizes her production power to tell stories that humanize Black experiences. Her approach is strategic and educational.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross advocates for representation and equity within the entertainment industry. She uses her voice to support the Black Lives Matter movement and specific demands for police reform. Ross maintains a positive digital space by filtering out hateful commentary. She encourages her followers to find joy while continuing the fight for justice. Her activism is an extension of her legacy and personal values.

John Boyega

John Boyega risked his career franchise standing when he delivered an emotional speech at a London protest. He stated plainly that he did not care if he never worked again while demanding respect for Black lives. The actor received immense support but also faced detractors whom he promptly ignored or shut down. His raw passion became a defining moment for celebrity activism during the summer of 2020. He continues to select roles that reflect his commitment to Black history.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer went viral for passionately pleading with National Guard members to march with protesters in Los Angeles. She uses her social media to speak directly to her generation about the importance of civic engagement. Palmer ignores critics who try to police her tone or her methods of protest. She remains authentic and unfiltered in her calls for justice. Her energy and vulnerability have resonated with millions.

Amandla Stenberg

Amandla Stenberg has been schooling the internet on cultural appropriation and systemic racism since she was a teenager. The star of ‘The Hate U Give’ (2018) is articulate and fierce in her defense of Black identity. She blocks and ignores the waves of harassment she receives from alt-right trolls. Stenberg views her acting roles as a vehicle for social commentary. She is a leading voice for Gen Z activism.

Colin Kaepernick

Colin Kaepernick sacrificed his NFL career to protest police brutality and racial injustice. While he is less active in arguing on Twitter, his blocking of the NFL’s attempts to co-opt his message without substance is notable. He ignores the constant media criticism and focuses on his Know Your Rights Camp. His silent protest spoke louder than words and forced the world to pay attention. He remains the symbol of the modern athlete-activist movement.

Tell us which celebrity you think handled the critics best in the comments.