Harlem Bagel Shop Removes Mascot Amid Blackface Controversy

Bo's Bagels, a popular establishment in Harlem, has removed a wooden advertising cutout of a cartoon bagel after it sparked controversy and accusations of racism. The mascot, designed by artist Tom Sanford, featured sunglasses, gold teeth grills spelling out 'Harlem World,' and a gold chain with 'NYC' lettering.

The controversy gained traction on social media after TikTok creator Anastazia X shared a video highlighting concerns raised by Harlem-based photographer Carl Broady. Broady described the sign as a "harmful, disrespectful caricature of black people," citing its "exaggerated features, bulging lips and teeth, and darkened skin tone" as reminiscent of historical racist imagery used to demean Black individuals.

Anastazia X stated that she had attempted to contact the shop's owners but received no response before posting her video, aiming to initiate a public discussion. She emphasized that while intentions matter, the impact of the imagery, with its painful historical roots, necessitates accountability.

Ashley Dikos, co-owner of Bo's Bagels, explained that the shop has an art program commissioning local artists, and Sanford, a longtime customer, was asked to create a sandwich board for specials. Dikos stated that they believed the cutout celebrated hip-hop and Harlem culture, viewing it as a cartoon bagel rather than a representation of a person. She mentioned that a store manager had been informed of a customer's concerns but could not reach out directly.

Following Anastazia X's video, the owners stated they welcomed a discussion with Sanford, who had "100 percent creative control" over the piece. Dikos expressed surprise at the online reaction, noting that the situation "snowballed" and led to harassment directed at the owners and staff via phone and email. She added that the mascot was removed immediately, as the situation had become "bigger than what we ever expected."

Sanford, an artist who has lived and worked in Harlem for decades, defended his creation, stating his intention was to celebrate the neighborhood's culture. He acknowledged that representations of people can carry racial subtext but maintained that "this is a cartoon bagel." He added that the overwhelming majority of people who had contacted him about the mascot viewed it positively and in line with his intent to celebrate Harlem's cultural contributions.

Anastazia X later clarified that she did not intend for the store or its employees to face harassment, stating her goal was to open a neighborhood conversation. She urged those with strong emotions to participate in the upcoming elections. Meanwhile, co-owner Andrew Martinez announced on social media that the shop would be releasing a thoughtful response soon.