Entertainment NewsNew Gap Ad Sparks Racial Controversy

New Gap Ad Sparks Racial Controversy

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Gap has issued an apology for a commercial photo shoot that caused many people to call the clothing line racist.

Related: TV Anchor Fired Over a “Racist” Facebook Post

Ellen DeGeneres and GapKids partnered for an activewear line called GapKids x ED, and the clothing line’s campaign launched with an ad featuring four girls from Le Petit Cirque – three white and one black – and posted on social media with the tweet “Girls Can Do Anything.”

However, the photo is causing a lot of controversy as one of the white children in the image is resting her arm on top of the head of the only black child featured in the photo. As the Root points out “a distinctly unempowering pose that harkened back to an antebellum South in which black children were used as armrests and footstools, and a present where black children are systemically devalued.”

Gap responded to the criticism with an apology and shared how they planned to fix their error in judgement.

“As a brand with a proud 46-year history of championing diversity and inclusivity, we appreciate the conversation that has taken place and are sorry to anyone we’ve offended,” Gap spokeswoman Debbie Felix said in a statement to Co.Create. “This GapKids campaign highlights true stories of talented girls who are celebrating creative self-expression and sharing their messages of empowerment. We are replacing the image with a different shot from the campaign, which encourages girls (and boys) everywhere to be themselves and feel pride in what makes them unique.”

Related: Fans BASH New ‘Ghostbusters Trailer: “Very Racist”

This news comes as Gap is struggling to find people to buy their clothes. According to recent reports, sales have decreased again this quarter by 3% causing their stock price to drop.

San Francisco-based Gap likewise saw its stock price drop on Oct. 9 to around $36 to $37 from around $41 to $42 after revealing on Oct. 8 that comparable sales at its flagship brand were down 3%, compared with gains for its Banana Republic and Old Navy chains.

Many people believe the image is a direct reflection in the lack of diversity in the executive level and powerful positions within the Gap company. What’s worse is that the young black model’s modeling career will be forever tarnished by this clear lack of oversight.

What do you think? Share with us your thoughts in the comments below!

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Megan Diane
Megan Dianehttps://www.projectcasting.com
Hi, I'm Megan Browne, the Head of Partnerships at Project Casting - a job board for the entertainment industry. As Head of Partnerships, I help businesses find the best talent for their influencer campaigns, photo shoots, and film productions. Creating these partnerships has enabled me to help businesses scale and reach their true potential. I'm excited to continue driving growth by connecting people with projects they're passionate about.

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