On June 23, the Gazette ran a political cartoon that relied on offensive racist stereotypes. The cartoon in question showed what appeared to be a Japanese man in highly stereotyped garb, including a “coolie” hat, constructing a topiary of the Olympic rings out of COVID virus particles.
The caricature used here of the “oriental gardener” was clearly meant to convey Japan’s lack of preparation for a COVID-era Olympics — and the use of racist stereotype made the cartoon seem to condemn Japan in general as foolish and incompetent.
We live in an era when right-wing extremist speech has put Asian and Pacific Island Americans at risk: there has been a significant uptick in violent attacks in the past months of this year. Running a cartoon such as this, which is not only offensive but also just plain stupid, adds fuel to that fire.
I think the Gazette owes an apology to their Asian and Pacific Island readers. Please refrain from publishing racist images in the future.
Sara Eddy
Amherst