Sensitivity Training

Dunkin’ Donuts Sorta Apologizes for Blackface-Featuring Ad

The ad in question.
The ad in question.

Over in Thailand, Dunkin’ Donuts is promoting its “Charcoal Donut” with an ad campaign that depicts a woman in blackface and bright pink lipstick. Human Rights Watch called the ad “bizarre and racist,” and Dunkin’s American wing apologized, admitting the campaign is “insensitive.” But the CEO of the company’s Thai franchise called the uproar “ridiculous.” The CEO, and, incidentally, father of the painted model, dismissed the outrage as American paranoia, asking, “What’s the big fuss?” While he begrudged the world with an apology, it was less than sincere: “I’m sorry, but this is a marketing campaign, and it’s working very well for us.” [NYDN, Time]

Dunkin’ Donuts Sorta Apologizes for Blackface-Featuring Ad