National Throw Shade Day

Young woman swinging a parasol, wearing large sunglasses, in a vibrant urban street setting, with bold and sassy clothing style.. — National throw shade day illustration

Welcome to WhatNationalDayIsIt.com, where we uncover the fascinating internet history behind national days! Today, we have a sassy and shady day to celebrate: National Throw Shade Day!

When is Throw Shade Day?

It's national throw shade day on the 22nd March.

The Origins of National Throw Shade Day

Have you ever heard someone say, 'Throwing shade'? It's a popular phrase that means to subtly insult or criticize someone. And on this special day, we celebrate the art of throwing shade!

National Throw Shade Day gained popularity in the online world, where social media sites like Twitter and Instagram became breeding grounds for witty comebacks and clever insults. It's a day when people embrace their sassy sides and let their shade-throwing skills shine.

While the exact origin of National Throw Shade Day remains a mystery, it's widely believed to have emerged from the dark corners of the internet. As people started sharing shady comments and hilarious clapbacks, the need for a day dedicated to throwing shade became apparent.

How to Celebrate National Throw Shade Day

If you're ready to embrace your inner shady diva (or divo), here are some fun ways to celebrate National Throw Shade Day:

Tweet or post clever and sarcastic comments using the hashtag #NationalThrowShadeDay.
Create funny memes or gifs that showcase your shade-throwing skills.
Challenge your friends to a shade-throwing contest and see who can come up with the wittiest insult.
Watch your favorite TV shows or movies known for their epic shade moments.
Send a playful and lighthearted shade-filled text to a friend (make sure they know it's all in good fun!)

Remember, throwing shade should always be done in a playful and friendly manner. It's all about showcasing your wit and having a good laugh!

Did You Know?

Did you know that throwing shade has its roots in African-American drag culture? The phrase originated in the 1980s and was popularized by the documentary 'Paris is Burning,' which explored the ball culture of New York City. 'Throwing shade' referred to using attitude and sass to one-up opponents during drag competitions. So, the next time you throw shade, remember its fabulous origins!

History behind the term 'Throw Shade'

1970s

Origins in African American LGBTQ+ communities

The term 'throw shade' originated in African American LGBTQ+ communities in the 1970s. It was used to describe a form of subtle insults or insults disguised as compliments, often delivered with a touch of humor and sarcasm. This linguistic expression became a way for members of these communities to navigate and communicate in a world that often marginalized them.

1990s

Popularization in ballroom culture

During the 1990s, 'throwing shade' gained broader recognition and popularity within the LGBTQ+ ballroom culture, particularly in the vogue scene. Ballrooms were safe spaces for black and Latino LGBTQ+ individuals, providing a platform for artistic expression through dance, fashion, and performance. The term 'throw shade' became a key component of the high-energy banter and competitions that took place in these ballrooms.

1991

Madonna's 'Vogue'

In 1991, Madonna's song 'Vogue' brought the underground ballroom culture into the mainstream. The song and its accompanying music video showcased elements of the LGBTQ+ ballroom scene, including the phrase 'throwing shade.' Madonna's popularization of the term helped introduce it to a wider audience and solidified its place in popular culture.

2002

Featured in 'Paris is Burning' documentary

'Paris is Burning,' a critically acclaimed documentary released in 1990 but gaining popularity in 2002, focused on New York City's ballroom culture and prominently featured the term 'throw shade.' The documentary served as an important cultural milestone, providing an intimate look into the lives and struggles of the individuals within this community and capturing the essence of 'throwing shade' as an art form.

2010s

Mainstream usage and social media

In the 2010s, 'throwing shade' became firmly embedded in mainstream popular culture, thanks in part to the rise of social media. The term gained widespread recognition, often used to describe witty insults or sarcastic comebacks. It has been embraced by celebrities, influencers, and everyday internet users, further solidifying its place in contemporary vernacular.