H&M hires diversity leader in wake of 'racist hoodie' controversy
'We are listening'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.In the wake of their latest controversy, Swedish fashion brand H&M has made the decision to hire a diversity leader - in the hopes the move will keep the company clear of further accusations of racism.
Announcing the decision on their Facebook page, the retail giant insisted that the move is meant to prove their “commitment to addressing diversity and inclusiveness is genuine.’
In the same post, the company reiterated that the recent incident was “entirely unintentional” but that it made them aware of their own influence as a brand.
They wrote the incident “demonstrates so clearly how big our responsibility is as a global brand.”
The post, which accompanied a picture reading: “We are listening,” has been shared only 48 times.
But from the comments, it appears many of H&M’s customers aren’t ready to forgive, or forget, just yet.
One person commented: “How many times can you apologise for the same thing? I feel it’s getting way out of hand now.”
Another wrote: “Too little too late...Never once was it a consideration. Not aforethought or afterthought. Only because of backlash and a possible deficit to your bottom line do you suppose to make a ‘change.’ We don’t believe you.”
However, others feel the company’s apology was enough to make amends for the racist advert.
One comment reads: “It was a mistake, we ALL make them and your apology seems genuine. Most companies would of hid or ignored the outrage, you guys got in front of it immediately and made adjustments. Love your product.”
The company’s announcement comes days after the young model’s parents revealed that they found nothing offensive about the advert.
Appearing on TV to discuss their son Liam’s safety after he was featured in the H&M ad wearing a sweatshirt that read “coolest monkey in the jungle,’ the couple also admitted that they have had to move from their home to keep their child safe after the controversy.
While H&M clearly missed the mark with this ad, hopefully, the hiring of a diversity leader will help guide the company in the future.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments