Roommates, Children’s Museum of Indianapolis have apologized after receiving backlash because their June 16 Watermelon Salad went viral. The photo started going viral on Facebook after Jonelle Slaughter recently posted a photo of the salad and commented under a post from its June 16 ad museum Jamboree. Jonelle wrote,
“So you all decided ‘hey, let’s celebrate by perpetuating offensive stereotypes. You all really think this is a good idea? “
If you don’t know how the stereotype began, The Atlantic reported in 2014 that it was born during the Jim Crow era, and that the fruit symbolizes black self-sufficiency. It didn’t take long for the museum to respond to Jonelle. They explained that they would immediately get the salad from the food court. In a statement to Fox 59, the museum apologized, stating,
“As a museum, we apologize and acknowledge the negative impact stereotypes have on communities of color. The salad was removed from the menu. We are currently looking at how we can best convey these stories and traditions in celebration of June 16 this year and making changes to the way our food service providers I make future food choices. ”
It continues,
“Our food service provider uses food and drink menus to celebrate and raise awareness of holidays like June 16. The team that made this selection included employees of the company. them, who base this food choice on their family traditions. As we work to create a culture of empowerment and inclusion, we know there will be bumps along the way. “
The statement closes with the museum explaining their plans to do better and continue to give all voices in their work. Roommate, how do you feel about the apology?
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