Zendaya Opens Up About Breaking Down Racial Barriers In Hollywood

Zendaya has spoken out about her career journey in the entertainment industry as part of her Marie Claire September issue cover story.

Chatting with Janet Mock, the actress explains that as a black woman it’s important for her to use the platform she’s gained to change the narrative for future generations.

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“What is important to me is knowing we are not the only black girls in the industry,” she said when asked about representation. 

“We kind of have been painted as the face, and that’s not the truth. It’s important to have a conversation where we are opening the door to our peers and more black women who don’t necessarily look like us.”

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And she’s not afraid to go for roles that are stuck in the archaic stereotype, as she explains how she’s ready to change the narrative.

“I always tell my theatrical manager, 'Anytime it says they’re looking for white girls, send me out. Let me get in the room. Maybe they’ll change their minds.”

This mentality saw Zendaya land her first big screen role in Spider-Man Homecoming, as she recounted: “I didn’t know that they were going to be more diverse in their casting. I didn’t know that I was walking into a situation where they were already breaking the rules. You get so used to having to break the rules for people.”

Zendaya for president, please.