US diplomat in row over 'skin dirty & dark like Tamilians' remark

[xchrom]

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/US-diplomat-in-row-over-skin-dirty-dark-like-Tamilians-remark/articleshow/9590178.cms

CHENNAI: A US diplomat was caught in a row after her remarks of "dirty and dark" Tamilians, prompting the American Consulate here to term them as "inappropriate".

"I was on a 24-hour train trip from Delhi to Orissa. But, after 72 hours, the train still did not reach the destination... and my skin became dirty and dark like the Tamilians," US Vice-Consul Maureen Chao said, going down memory lane two decades ago when she was a student.

In a speech at the SRM University, Chao also said, "Some 20 years ago, I was a student like you and had an opportunity to do a semester abroad. I chose to come to India, fascinated by the culture and religion. I travelled across villages to understand the culture better. I was amazed at the graciousness and friendliness of the people."

Going into a damage-control mode following her controversial remarks, the US Consulate here said, "During the speech Ms. Chao made an inappropriate comment. Ms. Chao deeply regrets if her unfortunate remarks offended anyone, as that was certainly not her intent".

[Name removed]

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[cali]

2. disgusting racist pig. fuck her and pull her.

[Bonobo]

3. Put a comma after "dirty" and pause and it has an entirely different meaning.

Dors "dirty" go with "dark"? I dont't know. Can you read minds?

[cali]

4. uh, it's not ok, with a comma. Unless you think it's ok to

to call a group of people bound by a common language and culture "dirty"

[Bonobo]

5. Umm, no. But the dirty could have been not connected with the dark.

Are you being coy, obtuse or are you just feeling ornry?

[rucky]

6. This is a situation where a comma would have made all the difference.

My skin became dirty, and dark like ....

[Angry Dragon]

7. 'deeply regrets if her unfortunate remarks offended anyone'

If you were not offended then I do not apologize

And I really hate that the person speaking the offensive remark can not even
personally give the apology ......... I would not except the apology from a spokesperson

[xchrom]

8. the non apology apology.

puts the burden on the rightfully offended -- but somehow makes them look weak if they speak up.