French-Malian pop sensation Aya Nakamura has become the target of racist attacks following speculation that she may grace the stage at the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics this summer.
The controversy erupted after French far-right group Les Natifs (The Natives) shared a photo on X depicting some of its members holding a banner with a derogatory message directed at Nakamura. The banner read: “There is no way Aya. It’s Paris here. Not the Bamako market,” a reference to a line from one of her popular songs.
Criticism intensified after reports emerged that Nakamura had discussed the possibility of performing a song by legendary French singer Edith Piaf at the Games during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron last month. Les Natifs accused Macron of “despising the French population and its culture” in response to Nakamura’s potential involvement in the event.
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In defiance of the racist backlash, Nakamura took to X to address her detractors. “You can be racist but not deaf…That’s what hurts you! I’m becoming a number 1 state subject in debates…but what do I really owe you? Nada,” she asserted.
French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera voiced support for Nakamura, expressing solidarity with the embattled artist. “It does not matter, we love you,” Oudea-Castera stated on X.
Despite the controversy, Nakamura remains one of the most streamed French artists on digital platforms, a testament to her widespread popularity and influence.
The opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics is scheduled for July 26, marking the first time it will be held outside a stadium. Approximately 10,500 athletes are expected to participate in the parade through the heart of the capital along the Seine River, covering a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) route.
