Deadspin writer criticized for accusing child of ‘blackface’ at Chiefs game
Writer for Sports Blog Criticized for Accusing Child of “Blackface” at Chiefs Game
A writer for the popular sports blog Deadspin faced backlash online after sticking to his claim that a child wore “blackface” to a Kansas City Chiefs game.
Of course. Also, though it is sometimes offensive, there’s nothing inherently wrong with “blackface.” (Just ask Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Billy Crystal, Robert Downey Jr., Sarah Silverman, Dan Aykroyd, John Slattery, et al.!) https://t.co/ALZr3xiMGm
— Michael Knowles (@michaeljknowles) November 28, 2023
Bruh. This kid is like 12. I know you idiots are obsessed with calling everyone racist but perhaps he was just honoring his favorite team?? https://t.co/ol8GRCkHa6 pic.twitter.com/jETWc4Pcm6
— Olivia Rondeau 🇺🇸 (@rondeaulivia) November 28, 2023
Deadspin’s senior writer, Carron Phillips, noticed the child at the game and wrote an article urging the NFL to condemn the young fan’s actions.
“It takes a lot to disrespect two groups of people at once. But on Sunday afternoon in Las Vegas, a Kansas City Chiefs fan found a way to hate Black people and the Native Americans at the same time,” Phillips wrote.
Phillips also criticized the NFL, claiming that the league has perpetuated prejudice and should have already changed the Chiefs’ name.
“This is what happens when you ban books, stand against Critical Race Theory, and try to erase centuries of hate,” Phillips added.
Later that day, Phillips stood by his accusation, responding to critics who argued that the child was simply showing support for his favorite team.
“For the idiots in my mentions who are treating this as some harmless act because the other side of his face was painted red, I could make the argument that it makes it even worse. Y’all are the ones who hate Mexicans but wear sombreros on Cinco,” Phillips wrote in a post.
Phillips faced immediate backlash in the replies to his post, with thousands of responses criticizing his stance. The Community Notes feature on X also noted that the writer had “failed to provide full context” regarding the boy’s face paint as a reference to the football team.
Michael Knowles from The Daily Wire commented that “though it is sometimes offensive, there’s nothing inherently wrong with ’blackface’,” citing various Hollywood performers who have used blackface in their acts.
“Deadspin writer here is trying to ruin the life of a child while insisting he’s actually the good guy in this situation,” one X user wrote.
“This race-hustling loser is tripling-down on attacking a young kid as ‘Racist!’ for wearing Kansas City Chiefs face-paint,” another X user added.
“We’ve spent decades paying some of the dumbest and most sensitive people alive to produce absolute drivel like this,” posted Wilfred Reilly, a political science professor at Kentucky State University.
The Daily Signal reporter Tony Kinnett wrote, “as a federally-registered member of the Cherokee Nation, I give any and all of you full permission to wear headdresses and tribal clothing. Paint your face red. Do a rain dance (then repent and seek Jesus). Also bring back the Cleveland Indians.”
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In what ways can sports teams and organizations address concerns of cultural insensitivity in their names, logos, and overall representation to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all fans
Mless act, let’s not forget that blackface has a long and painful history of racism and discrimination,” Phillips tweeted. “Using it as a way to show support for a sports team is not only disrespectful but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes.”
However, many people on social media disagreed with Phillips’ assessment and criticized him for accusing a child of such a serious offense. They argued that the child was likely just expressing his support for the Chiefs and that it was unfair to label him as racist.
One Twitter user, Michael Knowles, pointed out the inconsistency in condemning the child while ignoring other instances of blackface by well-known celebrities. “Of course. Also, though it is sometimes offensive, there’s nothing inherently wrong with ‘blackface,'” Knowles tweeted. He listed several celebrities who have portrayed characters in blackface without facing the same level of backlash.
Another Twitter user, Olivia Rondeau, echoed this sentiment, stating, “This kid is like 12. I know you idiots are obsessed with calling everyone racist, but perhaps he was just honoring his favorite team?”
Despite the backlash, Phillips stood by his accusation. He argued that regardless of the child’s intention, wearing blackface is inherently offensive and disrespectful. He emphasized the historical context and the hurtful impact it has had on marginalized communities.
As the controversy gained attention online, discussions about cultural sensitivity, racial awareness, and the responsibility of sports fans emerged. While some defended Phillips’ stance, others criticized him for overreacting and not considering the child’s perspective.
The incident also sparked a larger debate regarding sports teams’ names and logos that may be deemed culturally insensitive or offensive. Phillips used this incident as an opportunity to criticize the NFL for not taking action to change the Chiefs’ name, claiming that it perpetuates prejudice.
The controversy highlights the complexities surrounding issues of race, cultural appropriation, and representation in sports. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering an inclusive and respectful environment, both within sports fandom and society as a whole.
In conclusion, a writer for the sports blog Deadspin faced criticism for accusing a child of “blackface” at a Kansas City Chiefs game. The incident sparked a heated debate on social media, with some defending the writer’s stance against racism and others arguing that the child was simply showing support for his favorite team. The controversy raises questions about cultural sensitivity, sports team names, and the responsibility of fans to consider the impact of their actions. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for dialogue and understanding in matters of race and representation.
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