B-Girls On The Rise: Redefining The Identity Of Breakdance

In less than 24 hours after Australian b-girl Raygun’s performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, she became a viral sensation and was subjected to the world’s scrutiny. It’s time to broaden the spotlight. There are countless women redefining what it means to be a breaker, creating space for more diversity and acceptance in the culture. For decades, b-girls have been pushing for the recognition and representation they deserve. Their efforts have paved the way for exponential growth in women’s participation, competitive and commercial success, as well as opportunities in breaking. I spoke with a few of these women at the 2024 Red Bull BC One USA National Cypher in Los Angeles, where the USA’s best went head-to-head for a chance at the World Finals. Through those conversations, I learned about what identity means to them and about their individual journeys, both as b-girls and in life outside of dance. The Meaning of Identity Rascal Randi (Randi Freitas) is a professional dancer who has done it all: performing at the Grammys, choreographing for the Hip Hop Nutcracker, battling, teaching, and more. To her, “identity is who and how we show up in the world.” The combination of your natural self and...