The 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz is the foundation for the 2024 prequel film Wicked, which tells the story of the Wicked Witch of The West from a fresh perspective. At its core, Wicked has always been about what it feels like to be different, misunderstood, and judged—touching on themes of otherness, prejudice, and even racism. But for Black girls watching the green-skinned Elphaba face ostracization and vilification, the narrative takes on a profoundly personal meaning. When Cynthia Erivo, a Black woman, stepped into the role of Elphaba for the upcoming Wicked movie, it was a casting choice that felt authentic and transformative—a mirror reflecting not just a story about a misunderstood witch, but a powerful allegory about the lived experiences of Black girls.

For centuries, Blackness has been unjustly associated with evil. From black cats being deemed unlucky, to villains wearing black hats, to blackbirds—like ravens—being painted as ominous or demonic, society has consistently framed darkness as a marker of danger and immorality. This bias extends to how people perceive Black skin. For Black girls, these insidious associations are not abstract concepts; they are lived realities, reinforced by microaggressions, systemic racism, and media portrayals.

Elphaba’s green skin immediately casts her as an outsider, much like how Black skin often serves as a marker of “difference” in predominantly white spaces. From the moment she enters Shiz University, Elphaba is judged for her appearance before her intelligence, talent, or heart can be seen. Black girls know this experience all too well. Whether it’s being the only Black child in a predominantly white classroom or being subjected to scrutiny over hairstyles or skin tone, society often judges us before understanding us.

“No Good Deed Goes Unpunished”

Elphaba’s journey is a study in how society demonizes those who defy expectations. Her good deeds—saving animals from oppression, and standing up for what is right—are twisted into proof of her supposed wickedness. This resonates deeply with the experiences of Black women and girls, who are often punished for their excellence or advocacy. Consider the strong Black girl stereotype: excelling in academics, sports, or activism but still being labeled as “aggressive” or “too much” simply for advocating for equity.

This theme becomes painfully evident in the real world when Black people’s innocence is overshadowed by prejudice and racism. The recent case of a nurse arrested for injuring Black premature infant boys serves as a chilling reminder of how systemic racism can manifest, even in the spaces meant to nurture and protect. For Black girls watching Wicked, this idea—that even the youngest and even the most vulnerable are not spared from racism—adds a layer of poignancy to Elphaba’s story.

“Defying Gravity” as a Declaration of Independence

When Elphaba sings “Defying Gravity,” it’s a moment of liberation and self-acceptance. She decides to own her uniqueness, even if it means standing alone. This moment resonates with Black girls who have had to embrace their natural hair, their culture, and their identities in a world that often demands assimilation. Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba adds a layer of authenticity to this declaration. Her powerful performance reminds us that strength is found in embracing what makes us different, even when the world tries to make us feel small.

For Black girls, this anthem isn’t just about soaring to new heights; it’s about breaking free from societal chains that seek to define and confine them. It’s about thriving despite the odds, whether it’s in the workplace, in classrooms, or within friendships and family dynamics.

The Cost of Otherness

One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of Elphaba’s story is how deeply her “otherness” isolates her. Even those closest to her, like Glinda, struggle to fully stand by her. This mirrors the experiences of many Black girls who feel the sting of betrayal or exclusion, even from those who claim to be allies. The isolation Elphaba endures—and the strength she must summon to overcome it—is a familiar journey for Black girls who navigate predominantly white or hostile spaces.

Erivo’s Transformative Performance

Erivo’s casting as Elphaba is more than just representation; it’s reclamation. By placing a Black woman in this iconic role, Wicked becomes an even more powerful exploration of prejudice, resilience, and acceptance. Erivo’s nuanced portrayal infuses the character with layers of vulnerability and strength, making her Elphaba an unmistakable parallel to the Black experience.

Erivo’s own life and career embody the themes of Wicked. As a Black woman in the entertainment industry, she has undoubtedly faced challenges rooted in bias and exclusion. Her ability to channel those experiences into her performance is what makes her portrayal of Elphaba so resonant. The dance scene, where Erivo’s Elphaba expresses her frustrations and joys through movement, becomes a visual representation of what it means to be unapologetically yourself in a world that demands conformity.

“It Hits Differently”

When Black girls see Wicked, it hits differently. Elphaba’s story is not just about a misunderstood witch; it’s about every Black girl who has been judged for her appearance, questioned for her talents, or excluded for being different. It’s about the strength it takes to stand tall in the face of prejudice and the courage to defy societal expectations.

As more people watch Wicked, the movie, the casting of Erivo promises to bring these themes to the forefront in a way that is both empowering and heartbreaking. For Black girls, Wicked is more than a musical; it’s a mirror, a challenge, and an anthem. It reminds us that while the world may see us as “wicked” for simply being ourselves, we have the power to redefine that narrative and soar beyond the limits imposed upon us.