Qantas Apologizes (Twice) for Blackface Twitter Stunt

Full story HERE.

 

The twitter competition, held earlier this month, asked Wallabies fans to tell how they would show their support for the team for the chance to win two Platinum tickets to the Bledisloe Cup on Saturday night.

The winners of the Australian Wallabies v New Zealand All Blacks match arrived at the game dressed as their favourite player Radike Samo, wearing green and gold, with their arms, legs and faces painted black.

But what was supposed to be “a show of support” has sparked outrage among twitter users, who have labelled the stunt “appalling.”

Qantas quickly removed the photo and apologised to its followers this morning.

We understand it caused offence to some people, which is why it was removed. We are really sorry if it has upset anyone. We are apologising to those who found it offensive, obviously it was not our intention. Just meant to show their support of Radike.”

Qantas put the call out for competition entries on August 22 and said the 140-character tweets would be judged on their “creativity… and reference to the Qantas Wallabies football team.”

The winner, chosen by the Airline, wrote: “We will dress as Radike Samo. Complete with Afro Wig, Aus rugby kit and face paint.”

A Qantas spokeswoman said the airline had contacted Samo, who posed with the fans on Saturday night and said he did not have a problem with the winners’ costumes.

But twitter users have hit back at the airline’s apology.

“Cut it out with the fauxpologies. Say you’re sorry for posting the photo that did offend people (not if),” one tweet read.

“What that image represents to most people is appalling.”

 

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