Source: Rapworld/Twitter
G-Eazy joins The Weeknd by ending his partnership with H&M after a racially insensitive ad sparked outrage nationwide. The ad features a dark-skinned boy wearing a sweatshirt that read “coolest monkey in the jungle.” The ad was offensive as many white supremacists have referred to African Americans as monkeys in an attempt to slander, put down, and belittle them. The association between white supremacy and the derogatory “monkey” or “ape” is so widely known that it constitutes hate speech. The insensitivity towards the racial history surrounding the word has caused many to question not only why H&M would use it in their marketing campaign, but also how they were unaware of the outrage it would cause. Many have accused of not only being racially insensitive but being completely out of touch with black culture.
Comments, complaints, and criticism appeared throughout social media networks demanding an explanation from H&M and while people were furious, it was the public withdrawal of support by both The Weeknd and G-Eazy that is making people take notice.
Though H&M issued an apology, both G-Eazy and The Weeknd found the ad so offensive that they want nothing to do with the company’s further campaigns.
The Weeknd released a statement on Mondy where he described his reaction to the ad as being shocked and embarrassed. He released a statement on Twitter confirming he will no longer work with H&M.
G-Eazy also released a statement regarding the controversy. G-Eazy called out the company for not only being insensitive, but for so many people in the comapny remaining unaware of the controversy that would ensue.
Of all the people associated with the campaign, how coud someone not know how culturally insensitve, inappropriate, and offensive the ad would be.
woke up this morning shocked and embarrassed by this photo. i’m deeply offended and will not be working with @hm anymore… pic.twitter.com/P3023iYzAb
— The Weeknd (@theweeknd) January 8, 2018
G-Eazy spoke about his initial excitement about joining the H&M family and starting his own clothing line. His excitement quickly tapered off after seeing the ad.
In regards to H&M pic.twitter.com/EuvWMmZ6XA
— G-Eazy (@G_Eazy) January 9, 2018
What do you think about H&M’s ad? Did you find it offensive or insensitive? Do you understand the controversy behind the ad and why many people were outraged upon seeing it?
Do you agree or disagree with The Weeknd’s and G-Eazy’s decisions to stay way from H&M and cut ties with the company?
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