‘Black people can’t swim because of societal expectations’: Michelle Obama’s viral claim sparks controversy

A clip from Michelle Obama ’s recent book-tour appearance has gone viral after she suggested that societal expectations around hair contribute to why some Black women avoid activities like swimming. The remark quickly spread across X, where some users heavily mocked the statement, turning it into a viral moment on social media. The clip continued circulating across multiple platforms, making it one of the most discussed excerpts from her tour. Obama made the comment while explaining how many Black women straighten their naturally curly hair and then feel pressure to keep that style intact. She said that once the hair is straightened, “we are trapped by the straightness,” adding that water or sweat can undo hours of work. She joked that this is “why so many of us can’t swim” and why