If you’ve seen a soft pink treat floating around on Twitter, you’d be forgiven for wondering why it sparked a debate. However, one user’s perspective shared a beautiful message on why it’s a reason to celebrate.
South Africa (4 April, 2023) — As South Africans, we like to inspire change in unsuspecting places, whether that means reusable bags that are more proactive, or treats that are more inclusive.
Woolworths treats have experienced their fair share of tweet wars and Twitter debates (we’re still unsure how to feel about fish wors) but a recent Falooda received the spotlight for reasons beyond taste.
At the end of March, the South African food chain shared news of a new product. A ‘Halaal Rose Flavoured Full Cream Milk treat with Sabja Seeds’.
With it being the month of Ramadan, healthy Muslims refrain from eating or drinking (amongst other acts) from dawn to dusk, so many people were excited about the new treat on the block.
After all, we’re all used to seeing Easter Eggs scattered across aisles as well as hot cross buns and a few more jars of pickled fish. So for many to see more Halaal options on any day of the week was an exciting find.
However, not everyone was a fan, with some calling it ‘cultural theft’.
Tweets soon began flying as South African Muslims shared their opinions. However, amid a sea of them came a beautiful reminder.
Naseeha Jooma (@officialjooma) shared her thoughts on the conversation and sent a positive message to debating locals.
“Might be controversial, but I actually think it’s so cool that [Woolworths] came out with this for Ramadan. Many Muslims around the world face Islamophobia. We’re blessed that in South Africa we rarely have this problem. The fact that our culture is celebrated is great.” — Naseeha.
Might be controversial but I actually think it’s so cool that @WOOLWORTHS_SA came out with this for Ramadan. Many Muslims around the world face Islamophobia. We’re blessed that in South Africa we rarely have this problem. The fact that our culture is celebrated is great. pic.twitter.com/EFxQzJ6mdr
— Naseeha 🇿🇦 🇵🇸 (@officialjooma) April 2, 2023
Soon, Twitter users were inspired to share their own positive takes!
Agreed! Plus they didn’t whitewash it by naming it “pink milkshake” or something so I don’t see the need for anyone to be upset. I’m loving the inclusivity.
— Sumayya (@mayyavawda_) April 2, 2023
Now that I know the significance I’m glad to see this this stand next to the hot cross buns and Easter eggs ( not quite but you know what I meant) ☪️ 🐣
— sue eardley (@suziinjozi) April 3, 2023
I really appreciate this tweet and I’m making it my whole identity today. Telling everyone to view things with this positive perspective.
— S-doublea-r-a 🇵🇸 (@saaratjie) April 3, 2023
This is what I’ve been saying as well. I look at it more as cultural appreciation than cultural appropriation. I feel like it’s inclusive and let’s people outside of the culture learn about the culture to a certain extent as well
— Dan 🙏🏽 (@DanDaggerDick) April 3, 2023
Somebody finally said it 👏🏼
— Haneefa 🍯 (@Haneefa_D) April 2, 2023
by 