Draya Michele often finds herself in the social media hot seat, but this time, the internet is divided! While some have criticized her recent Instagram post as “tone deaf,” many are stepping up to defend the actress and entrepreneur for promoting air purifiers amid the ongoing California wildfires.

What Happened?

In an Instagram video, Draya showcased the Sereniby air purifier she set up in her home to combat the toxic air quality in Los Angeles due to the wildfires. Along with the video, Draya offered her followers a discount and explained the importance of breathing clean air during the crisis.

Here’s what Draya wrote in her caption:

“While the unimaginable is happening with the fires in LA… air quality is so poor, toxic even. I’m using the @sereniby_official air purifier to ensure that my kids and pets are breathing in fresh, double-filtered air. The brand is now offering $200 off when you use my link in bio. There’s no price on peace of mind, but having it is more valuable than most worldly things. #prayforla #airquality #airpurifier.”

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The Backlash

A user on X (formerly Twitter), @airlave2Ø7, criticized Draya for using the wildfires as a marketing opportunity, calling the post “tone deaf”:

“Draya using LA fires to promote an air purifier on her Instagram. Like she never does anything right. Tone deaf af.”

Another user, @KevCoke6, joined in, saying:

“You can’t deny how attractive she is, but boy does she have rocks rattling around her skull for a brain.”

Fans Defend Draya

However, on Instagram, many fans weren’t having the negativity. They came out in droves to defend Draya, pointing out that promoting air purifiers during a wildfire crisis is practical and helpful:

• @atlpics: “Y’all just hating lol. They actually could use some purification, this on point @drayamichele ”
• @iamtheashley: “The air we are breathing here in LA is the most toxic it’s been. We ALL NEED purifiers right now. How is this tone deaf?”
• @theunsinkablemollybrown: “I’m starting to think a LOT of ppl just like to be upset cause isn’t this one of the best times for a damn purifier?”

Others made light of the situation, using humor to clap back at the critics:

• @the.jee.spot: “Ppl acting like she said, ‘The roof, the roof, the roof is on fire… 50% off all Mint Swim items to cut the heat, while you stay cool ’ That woulda been tone deaf .”
• @ricocash1of1: “So Walmart not posed to sell candles when the power goes out?”

The Bigger Picture

While opinions remain divided, many agree that Draya had good intentions. Promoting clean air amid one of California’s worst wildfire seasons is far from the out-of-touch narrative some critics are pushing.

This situation is a reminder that the internet loves scrutinising public figures, but sometimes, the criticism might be unwarranted.

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