Harlem Bagel Shop Faces Criticism Over Controversial Artwork

A bagel shop in Harlem is encountering significant pushback from the community concerning a piece of artwork displayed outside the establishment. The controversy started when a content creator, Anastasia X, raised questions on social media about whether the artwork at Bo’s Bagels was reminiscent of blackface.

After Anastasia X shared her thoughts online, a wave of responses followed, with many individuals expressing their offense at the promotional figure known as ‘bagel guy’, which has been interpreted as an appropriation of Black culture. In response to the uproar, the owners of Bo’s Bagels decided to remove the sign, while co-owner Ashley Dikos noted that the situation has led to threats and harassment directed at the staff. Artist Tom Sanford clarified his intention, stating that his work was meant to represent Harlem and not to imply any specific racial identity.