Associations of black people with monkeys and apes have been used for centuries to make them seem less-than-human and justify hatred and exploitation. This associations continue to be propagated (e,g., here, here, and here). This week Costco pulled the black “Lil’ Monkey” baby doll from its shelves, along with its white “Pretty Panda” counterpart, as a result of protests that it was racist.
As you can see, the black doll has on a hat that says “lil’ monkey,” is surrounded by products that have monkeys on them, as well as a stuffed monkey. A peeled banana points at the child’s mouth.
Here is the white counterpart, the “Pretty Panda” doll:
The manufacturer of the dolls is claiming that there was no intention to be racist. Specifically, they argued:
We don’t think in that way. We don’t operate in that kind of thinking.
Social psychologists have shown, robustly, that any given member of a society, even those who are the target of negative stereotypes, will hold pre-conscious stereotypical beliefs common in that society. (If you’d like to test your own unconscious biases, and see aggregate test results of others, I highly recommend Harvard’s Project Implicit.)
The fact that we are all racist already, whether we like it or not, is the point that the manufacturer completely misses. They do think in that way. We all do. Not thinking in that way consciously doesn’t mean that racism didn’t play a role in the manufacturing of a black Lil’ Monkey doll. In fact, their defense actually makes things worse. Their refusal to think about racism, in favor of a defensive reaction, is as racist as the doll itself. We can’t fight racism unless we’re prepared to admit that we hold unconscious biases.
By the way, in my opinion, the proper response should have been: “Oh hell, we messed up bad. You are absolutely right. We are really bleeping sorry,” but with stronger curse words. And also: “Can I say I’m sorry again? In addition to racist, we were profoundly insensitive to centuries of violent hatred… and it is simply not okay.”
UPDATE: Commenters alerted me to alternative media coverage that made it clear that “Pretty Panda” and “Lil’ Monkey” dolls both came in black, white, and “Hispanic”:
I’m not sure why none of the media coverage I came across noted this.
In any case, I think this raises an even more interesting question: Does the history of associating black people with primates, and I will refer you again to this post, actually make any product that does so problematic? Does the fact that the doll comes in white and Hispanic erase any concerns about the fact that the black doll exists?
As usual, our readers are quick to ask difficult questions and this discussion is already well under way in the comments. What do you think?
Images from here, here, and here, via Resist Racism.
UPDATE: Comments on this post have been closed.
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Lisa Wade is a professor of sociology at Occidental College. You can follow her on Twitter and Facebook.
Comments 112
opminded — August 16, 2009
"Their refusal to think about racism, in favor of a defensive reaction, is as racist as the doll itself." This is truly Orwellian.
L — August 16, 2009
When the company was designing these dolls didn't anyone say WTF? I'm sure someone had to question this. Again its only a Causasian and an African American doll produced. Not any other races.
Ashley — August 16, 2009
At least the Pretty Panda doll wasn't Asian?
Damien — August 16, 2009
Im almost certain someone did question this. The company obviously didn't care enough at that time. It took public reaction for the company to capitualate. But this incident displays something about US society that's been going on for a while. It's this new "color-blind"/libertarian racism. The notion goes something like this: "Racism is something of the past, and if it does exist today it exists in little pockets mostly concentrated in "white trash hick towns" and it has no relevance today. If you draw too much attention to it you are simply fanning the flames or even worse - a racist yourself"
Some people actually go as far as justifying racism on more libertarian grounds saying that people should have the freedom to think what they want, therefore if you criticize someones racist thoughts then you are encroaching upon this person's freedom of expression and speech.
Both theories do nothing but create a atmosphere in which racism thereby flourishes uninhibited. And now people, companies, and instutiions can basically get away with being racist all the time without any criticism. And if they are called out on it, they'll just simply issue a sugar coated apology. Easy. But the ramifications have already become embedded into the fabric of society, planting the seeds for the next round of racism that will most likely be more intense.
This is why the only way to handle racism is to FIGHT IT! Fight it in any way, whereever or from whomever it may manifest. The same should go for sexism, homophobia, xenophobia or any sort of ideology that serves to split ordinary people apart.
Franklin S. — August 16, 2009
The dolls are stupid. No doubt.
As for the Implicit Association Tests there are serious questions about their validity. The IAT gained huge notoriety in pop psychology due to their use in The Tipping Point, but the subject is not yet settled in scientific psychology. One recent article that discuses how robust the IAT is regarding race is here: http://www.law.upenn.edu/fac/jklick/94JAP567.pdf
Lisa Wade, PhD — August 16, 2009
Franklin S.,
It is my understanding that that Harvard Implicit Tests are designed to detect unconscious bias (which is what I was interested in), whereas the study you link to refers to the relationship between unconscious bias and discriminatory behavior. No?
Franklin S. — August 16, 2009
Hi Lisa,
The issue is whether the IAT be validated by actual behavior vs. correlations with other measures of implicit attitudes, etc. The study itself asks two questions: (1) does the IAT reliably predict discriminatory behavior and (2) does current research support the claim that most people posses a level of bias that would produce discriminatory behavior.
With something as nebulous as unconscious, implicit associations and as controversial and important (personally, socially, politically) as racism I believe that it is essential that we validate our tests with measures from outside psychology, i.e. actual behaviors.
Anyway, my point wasn't really about this specific post or even the ubiquitousness of unconscious racism. It was more about (to use a very un-psychological term) the social construction of psychological test validity. The IAT is very very popular right now, especially outside of psychology proper. Funny enough, it is often most popular (maybe because of the results its generating) in fields that are often the most critical of psychological tests generally.
Anyway, just some thoughts. I'll stop now before I really start rambling.
Lisa — August 16, 2009
I'm glad you're raising questions about the tests themselves and whether or not they actually test what they say they are testing.
I don't agree, though, that unconscious bias needs to be validated by behavior, or is otherwise uninteresting if it doesn't reliably translate into behavior. I'm thinking of Patricia Devine's work that has shown that we all have unconscious bias, but some people consciously fight it harder than others. Discriminatory behavior, then, is a function of unconscious bias and non-reflection, where the least prejudice people are the ones that force themselves to confront their own biases all the time.
That's where I'm coming from.
Franklin S. — August 16, 2009
It is not that evidence of unconscious bias needs to be validated by behavior as much as that tests of unconscious bias (or anything else) need to be validated by some measure that has independent validity. While I agree that the evidence of unconscious bias from IATs is very interesting (and I find the tests themselves very clever in a "damn I wish I had thought of that" way) I would prefer the results were validated *in some way* outside the laboratory, especially because the empirical/experimental nature of the test lends itself to being used as solid scientific evidence for the results (with all the rhetorical power these concepts bring forth).
This is especially concerning because the IAT is slowly being marketed (both inside and outside of science) as a test of all sorts of things (racism, sexism, pedophilia, etc.) that potentially have very serious social consequences.
To be clear I am not saying that ubiquitous unconscious racism doesn't exist (I actually think it does) just that the IAT is not as secure a measure as it is sometimes believed to be. Anyway, thats where I am coming from. I find the whole unconscious/implicit bias stuff to be both utterly fascinating and frighteningly messy, which makes it a great topic.
PS: I originally subscribed to SI a couple years ago while thinking about how fMRI images are used in the media. Although I never did write a paper on the topic I've enjoyed SI so much its stayed in my feed list. Thanks for all your time and effort, its very much appreciated.
Lisa — August 16, 2009
Franklin,
Well said.
And I had no idea that IAT was potentially being used outside of academia. That is, I agree, worrisome. It reminds me of uses (and abuses) of genetic tests and other ways that we bypass the person and ask questions of the body (very Foucauldian, actually, you could say that IAT functions to allow the body to "confess" things that the person could or would not). Fascinating.
We're so glad you enjoy the blog! Gwen and I have a lot of fun with it, largely because we enjoy our readers so much. :)
Alina — August 16, 2009
I've taken that test three times, a few months apart, and the result each time was that I exhibit no bias. I know this can't be true, because I have caught myself reacting to the stereotype instead of the person when faced with a person of another race (I'm caucasian), and have to correct myself. I haven't read anything about the test or those who think it's inaccurate, but I do know that it's likely wrong in my case, or I'm too smart for it.
rachel — August 16, 2009
WHY do the black and white dolls have to be different "animals"? Black Barbie didn't have a special name, she was just Barbie, too. Why couldn't they both be little pandas or little monkeys? why is it that the black doll just *happens* to be the one who is "little monkey", with the racist association of black people with monkeys? That doesn't happen unless the toy manufacturers ARE racist.
Tiffani W — August 16, 2009
I definitely think it's unfortunate that the company made that stupid decision, to associate the monkey with the black baby doll.
I find it almost especially unfortunate because I think the dolls and animals (the black baby/monkey more so than the white baby/panda) are unbelievably adorable. I'd love to have had one of those when I was little; they go along the Littlest Pet Shop theme and look well-made and fun to play with. :(
Look at the monkey's face!!! <3
Louisa — August 17, 2009
That was a bad decision to have the two different races have different animals attached, so people can't help but think they are trying to associate the race with the animal. Why can't they both have monkeys or both have pandas? Solves that issue without appearing racist.
“Lil Monkey”=Black Baby; “Pretty Panda”=White Baby « This So-Called Post-Post-Racial Life — August 17, 2009
[...] a comment » Via Sociological Images: The fact that we are all racist already, whether we like it or not, is the point that the [...]
Alyssa — August 17, 2009
@Damien I completely agree with you. The statement "we don't think in that way" implies, "We didn't notice it because we don't make those racist associations- since you noticed it, you do think in racist terms; therefore, you are the racist not us." It is colorblindness gone amok.
@rachel: Of course the black doll and the white doll have to have different animals associated with them. We can't go around calling black dolls pretty pandas now can we? (okay I'm done with my snark for now)
Katie — August 17, 2009
"Discriminatory behavior, then, is a function of unconscious bias and non-reflection, where the least prejudice people are the ones that force themselves to confront their own biases all the time."
Exactly.
Morgan — August 17, 2009
So, I should not buy this doll for my little girls?
Susan — August 17, 2009
The Seattle channel Q13 had both animals with 3 skin colors. That's 3 for the monkey and 3 for the Panda. Caucasian/Black/Hispanic each.
I saw it on the news that night the story broke.
SEATTLE - Issaquah-based retailer Costco has pulled thousands of dolls from store shelves after complaints the toy was offensive.
The doll was part of the "Cuddle With Me" line that featured dolls showing either a monkey or panda theme. Both types of dolls were mass-produced with African-American, Caucasian and Hispanic coloring. The dolls with the monkey theme wear hats that say "lil' monkey".
http://www.q13fox.com/news/kcpq-081409-monkeydoll,0,909278.story
I lived with a racist husband for many years, so I know what racism looks like, but my mom and I always called our little(white) children "monkeys" because of the way they held on to us so tightly and were jumping around all the time. But the doll makers are supposed to know this kind of stuff because it's the parents that buy the toys, not the children. Total ignorance that will cost them in the long run.
CareyCarey — August 17, 2009
Hello, this is a very interesting topic. I saw it here:
“Lil Monkey”=Black Baby; “Pretty Panda”=White Baby « This So-Called Post-Post-Racial Life 6:26 am on August 17,
My 2 cents ....Okay, we know that most "test" results are championed by those that sponsor the test. Flip it, smack it, rub it around, somewhere lurkering in the wings is an individual or company seeking to gain a reward.
Next, to call a racist a "racist" seldom if ever makes them change their racist ways. Hand them a mirror and they will comb their hair - and say "yeah but".
It's okay for Leon and Leqeetaa to do what they do until they move into certain neighborhoods. A racist will seldom admit to being one. What would be their purpose? That sentiment is akin to the fact that most humans are more prone to pray when life gets tough. Rasism generally affects the oppressed - those on the bottom of the social ladder. I doubt if tests, muddled issues and laying our ladders on the wrong fence will ever bring sufficent change.
"We must fight racism!" ...is a great battle cry, it serves to elevate emotions but if racism is embedded in the sole of the person, passed down through generations, what battle ground are we on? What/who do we fight? What should be the true weapons to fight this scorge of society?
Matt Cornell — August 17, 2009
To me, this story is complicated by the fact that both Lil' Monkey & Pretty Panda reportedly were sold in three different versions-- white, African American and Latino. The media reports haven't mentioned this at all, instead making the inflammatory suggestion that the company only made the panda for white children and the monkey for black children. This seems not to be the case.
P — August 17, 2009
As Susan and Matt already brought up, each of the dolls was manufactured in three colors, representing White, Black, and Hispanic children, respectively. If anything, the manufacturer had probably deliberately tried to be politically correct by offering all the dolls in the line in each color. That they ended up marking a black doll "li'l monkey" bespeaks insensitivity and carelessness, but it does not seem to call for the sort of sackcloth-and-ashes repentance Lisa and others have been demanding.
If anything, this incident shows that outrage spreads much faster than fact. We are so eager to filter everything through our small set of talking points that we forget to check if the conclusions even speak to the evidence. If I may go wildly off-topic, that's how the health care debate got sidetracked into accusations of "death panels" and the old canard of "socialized medicine."
Susan — August 17, 2009
The manufacturers want to act the way the South Park kids did when Chef wanted to get rid of the flag that had someone getting lynched and plead "colorblindness". That rarely works. Actually, it never works. It just makes them look stupid.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chef_Goes_Nanners
(And please, nobody ask Prez Obama what he thinks about it, he might actually say it's stupid too and then get into trouble for it. Again.) :p
Black Looks » Lil monkey and pretty panda — August 19, 2009
[...] about the representation of Blackness in children s toys not the 50s, 60s, 70s but in 2009. These two dolls, one black one were white were found on sale in Costco – the images speak for [...]
rachel — August 19, 2009
Since they did come in three "colors" and two animals...if someone's Costco near them only had black dolls in "li'l monkey", either because the others were sold or the shipment to that store didn't include any, the message would end up the same: the consumer would see this doll and the same racial undertones that we all saw when the two pictures were the only ones we could see.
aside from that, earlier in the comments, Ashley said, "Aren't you glad that the Panda doll isn't Asian?" The fact that the doll was white made it not a racial stereotype of Asians. BUT now we see that they DID make Asian Pretty Pandas. So, they made two dolls that were racially insensitive. Does it seem to anyone else like they made it "okay" by tossing in white dolls and making dolls of every kind, to mitigate the fact that the li'l monkeys come in black and the pretty pandas come in Asian? a way to disguise the racism?
rachel — August 19, 2009
Hispanic this post says was the third "race"...on my news here I thought I remembered them saying Asian, so...calling myself on it first...lol
Ty — August 20, 2009
This is as racist as it gets. For those who believe that it isn't, should be ashamed of themselves. The company who manufactured these offensive dolls, I hope their stock hits rock bottom, and they go under.
Racism in any form is terrible. Individuals who don't fell that there's a problem have never dealt with racism. Try explaining to your children why kids won't play with them, because of their color. Explain to your children that you can grow up to be whatever your heart desires, but only if you're white.
Jamaica — August 24, 2009
It's time to show the world that we Americans have actually learned from
our past, and it's also time to teach the new generation of American
children how to make a difference with dignity and great power.
I say let them make their dolls, we don't have to purchase them. The laws of
supply and demand our on the side of the right this time. If we don't
purchase the dolls for our children, they will not sell them, and the demand
will lessen; thus, the doll maker will not like what they see on their
balance sheets.
I actually and hoping that America uses this hype as another way to learn
how to handle things, and make a stand in the world. As a Black/Hispanic
American, I would like to think that our nation's citizens learned from
the activists of the Civil Rights Movement. If we stand together, in great
numbers against the injustices of the world, and we do not falter when the
going gets rough, we will be heard without ever uttering one single word to
the press.
Mundo Cani Dog — August 26, 2009
What's racist about a little white baby doll wearing a hat called "Lil' Monkey" and hugging a monkey doll? What's racist about a little black baby doll wearing a hat called "Lil' Panda" and hugging a panda doll?
None of you have addressed that.
The closest you got was that (paraphrasing) "Just having the black Lil' Monkey proves they are racist, regardless of the white and Hispanic dolls."
That doesn't fly. You can make the exact same argument: "The United States has a black President. That proves it is not racist."
john blacksmith — August 26, 2009
dyou have to be black to understand how much this hurts....this is very racist and no its nothing when u switch it around because it doesnt fit the racial comments used towards blacks in slavery days...yes we have a black president but to be real he is only half black and just because he is in office does not mean that the KKK and all other racial groups said quits......be real....visit some of the southern states where i am from and see if you can go anywhere u want in any state being black without having troubles ....This is a racist act and should be reported everywhere nationwide to ruin this place of business......I believe that this place should be reported and erminated by the civil rights act
Mundo Cani Dog — August 26, 2009
You still have not addressed the question: The Lil' Monkey doll is sold as white, Hispanic, and black babies. Why is this racist?
It's a real question.
And, please, this has nothing to do with me, so do not make assumptions that I am not black nor from a Southern state.
careycarey — August 26, 2009
mmI am missing your position, Mundo Dog. I don't under stand your point "The United States has a black President. That proves it is not racist" ?
Mundo Cani Dog — August 26, 2009
Some have suggested that "Just having the black Lil' Monkey proves they are racist, regardless of the white and Hispanic dolls." My point is that that doesn't seem logical. It would be like saying: "The United States has a black President. That proves it is not racist." Which is also illogical.
My question remains: The Lil' Monkey doll is sold as white, Hispanic, and black babies. Why is this racist?
I would really love to hear folks thoughts on this. (This seems like a pretty intelligent board....)
careycarey — August 26, 2009
No No Mundo, Lisa's statement was simply a retorical question. It may indeed usher in another view, but her orignal statement still stands. As many boards go, the conversations shift. There will always be those that find a thread within the central point to find a place to say "I told you so". You will find that it's seldom that many people move from their entrenched opinions/positions. They may even know that they are wrong but they will never admit it to someone else. The fact is that some cultures were offended by the display of the dolls, regardless that they were accompanied by other dolls of various colors. What type of a person would be so foolish to tell another what should or shouldn't offend them.
Susan — August 26, 2009
I don't know if non-white people have ever heard white people call each other monkeys out of jest or affection, but they do. I read another example today from a book written in 1982 of white people calling another white person a monkey. I've known someone in a restaurant kitchen calling everyone a "kitchen monkey". You've heard of grease monkey, right? Now all these doll makers need to do is research and actually find out what terms of endearment the different races call their children and each other. Isn't it obvious it only happened because of the company's complete ignorance and lack of research?
Bee — August 27, 2009
I wasn't going to make my comment, but I think it might help others to realized how painful this could be. I received this article about Lil Monkey. My first response was the baby is cute, until I noticed beside her was a monkey with a banana.
It brought back memories when my daughter was three years old in daycare. When she told me, a child told her that she was a monkey and all monkeys like to eat bananas. My daughter also said,"mommy I am a monkey and I don't like bananas." Then she started to played with only her white baby dolls at home.Wow, at an early age hatred is taught to younger children. I want my daughter to love who she is and to love all God's children. She is now, ten years old! There are more settle racist she is now experiences, but she is learning hatred is taught.As a parent, my job is to teach her what is right and protect her. As of today, she doesn't like bananas nor watermelon. This could be just a dislike or reflection from the pass.However, my daughter does enjoys her collection of barbie dolls of all race.
Since, our new president, the true color of others are on the raise. We as Americans, should protect all rights for every human being.The new generation are seeing each other as human not race. Finally, a CHANGE is here! Let's help others make a positive change for ALL human beings.
Should we compare our children?
cynthia — August 28, 2009
I think this is a bunch of crap. When I can't even refer to my grandkids as little monkeys anymore because it's not politically correct.....I say Bushva!
Those dolls were white, hispanic & black. If a black person takes offense well too bad...too sad.
If you're black you're black..if your white you're white, if you're hispanic you're hispanic. What's the big deal?
Stop looking for trouble..when there is no intent. There are enough real problems to worry about
Links of Great Interest 8/21/09 | the Hathor Legacy — August 30, 2009
[...] you buy your child a Lil Monkey baby [...]
nichole — August 31, 2009
OMG!! RIDICULOUS! The lil monkey doll came in white too! Does everything have to come down to black and white now these days. Get over it. For crying out loud our president is black. As a caucasion person I feel I have to walk on egg shells around african americans because of stupid things like this. Get over the insecurities. The whole black white thing is so overdone now. We can't get any more equality than we are unless you want us to start whipping out the white card. "It's because I'm white isn't it?" Let it go and grow up. It was a stuffed animal with a baby in black and white. By the damn panda if you dont like it.
MoniQue — August 31, 2009
I was floored over this until I saw the other dolls in the same lil' monkey theme. I can understand the anger wholheartedly and it hurt me to see the doll side by side with the so called "hispanic" one with the panda on another site. But to include it on a black baby period stems from ignorance.
Speaking of ignorance, the "Hispanic" doll is disturbing, not the way the doll looks, but the label. Here's some things to ponder:
1) At least 30% Hispanics are in fact Caucasian, at least in Mexico. Please know "Hispanic" is NOT a race, it is a culture consisting of all 3 races mentioned above. The Spanish language is from Europe, Spain. The Spaniards mixed with the Indians and I believe this is who people are referring to when they say "Hispanic." South Americans and other "Hispanic" countries are filled with Spanish and Italian Caucasians. Agentina has about 70% with Italian surnames. And we do not separate each other by color there, nor in Mexico, nor in Cuba.
Only in America is this done.
http://campello.tripod.com/hispanic.html
2) The fact is that in every so-called "fine university" they teach evolution from monkeys. This is the real crime and where reducing a black person to the status of a monkey is perpetrated. No human being should be reduced to the status of an animal. The truth is that this theory, and that is what it is since it's been disproven by real scientists, is a big problem.
3) Know this: God's animals would be offended to know that we equate ourselves with them in the first place. They never fell from grace in the garden, we humans did. To me, animals are better than most people, so I would never feel insulted if called any animal myself. Many people today do things animals would NEVER do (sodomy, rape, genocide, and more).
4) Our materialism is also way out of control. I personally do not see the purpose in including a banana or depicting a baby as a monkey or a panda in the first place. Why reduce a baby to an animal? Yes, I know some parents lovingly refer to little kids as "little monkeys," but to put them in doll form eating a banana with the label "Lil' Monkey," I fail to get any cute connection myself.
5) Throughout history when one group of people committed crimes against humanity, they always did so by first equating them to the status of an animal. The truth is if we respected animals in the first place there would never be a lower status. Think about THAT.
CareyCarey — September 1, 2009
Nice reply/comment MoniQue!
A few of the other comment that said such things as STUPID! STUPID!, get over it, bushva, if your black your black, etc, is a fine example of monkey see/monkey do (no pun intended).
Again, they've obviously missed the whole point, OR maybe they haven't. Maybe they are doing what comes natural to them, and therein lies the very essences of this problem. If they feel as if they have to walk on eggs shells around blacks, I'd say progress is being made. Although "walking on egg shells is a trite figure of speech, it speaks of being quite and respectful of others.
I can't help but think that those who have trumpeted their horns so loudly in disapproval at others who were offended by the dolls, are no thinking very deep. I am sure they have a culture, or a religion, or a parent, or any other passionate connections, that would rile their sensitivities if someone hazardously offended them. Then, lets add a little icing on the cake by throwing in the biggest rationalization RACE CARD "We have a black president".
Telling a person they are insensitive, and that some of their remarks may reek of unconscience racism, appears to be a great curtain call. A friend of mine says calling a racist a "racist" is frequently a call to have them comb their hair and smile for the camera. They don't know any better. They just can't get over, or around, or deep within themselves. They lay in ignorance because that's what they do, and they love it.
Anonymous — September 2, 2009
If all races were available at the COSTCO Store as Lil Monkeys then I would agree with you. However the problem is when the dolls were put on the shelves of the store only the black dolls (lil Monkey) and the White dolls (Pretty Panda) were placed on the shelves. If they had both races or all three races on the shelves as Pretty pandas as well as Lil Monkeys there would be no issue or discussion going on but the simple slip of only providing the black dolls in the store as Lil Monkeys is where the problem arose.
Scar — September 2, 2009
First, a disclosure: I am white so this probably negates any validity of my opinion on the matter.
I can see why there would be some outrage over the doll. However, as a white person who hasn't grown up in an environment of racist attitudes towards other groups -- my first thought is not immediately to make the connection between a black person and a monkey. I'm sorry, but I just don't. I understand why a black person -- who, naturally, has had more experience with such racist attitudes -- would be more likely to immediately recognize it.
The lady apologized for offending customers. In saying that she didn't realize it was racist -- I believe she is being truthful. And what I think she meant by that is that is was not a DELIBERATE decision to sell a doll which could be viewed as a portraying a racial stereotype. If you aren't around people who make those kinds of comments or have friends who have shared experiences about their own racist encounters -- you just wouldn't automatically see it that way. Now, you can say that perhaps white people need to be better educated in political correctness so that we won't inadvertently say something offensive. I'm sure that is true. But, honestly, it gets old having to constantly watch what you say out of fear that something you say might be taken to mean that you are "unconsciously" racist.
My brother-in-law is black. He's a great guy. But birthday parties at his house are so damn uncomfortable for me. The house usually ends up segregated as neither side is comfortable talking to the other. His sister wore a t-shirt to his son's birthday party that said "Uppity Negress". How in the world am I supposed to take that? Is it merely a black pride thing? Is it designed to send a message to his wife's family? It made me uncomfortable because I perceived it to be directed at white people and so I basically just avoided her the whole time. And then there is the whole 4th of July thing -- I never knew many black people don't celebrate it because they weren't free when America was founded. So, if I wish a black person happy 4th -- am I sending some coded message that I wish slavery was still around?
I just wish we could have more open dialogue and less political correctness. If I couldn't openly talk with my brother-in-law, I wouldn't learn as much as I have about black history and the struggles that still exist today. He doesn't get defensive. He talks and I listen. Honestly, relationships like the one I have with him are going to do much more to bring the races closer and to a better understanding than all the boycotts and brow beatings of well meaning, though admittedly ignorant (not dumb, just ignorant in this topic) people like the lady and myself.
I'm not trying to be disrespectful or anything. I'm just being honest. Constantly worrying about sticking my foot in my mouth is hard enough on a daily basis with everyone I meet without worrying that I'll be saying something horrible and not even realize it. Then I'll be accused of unconsciously being a racist and not my apology for not realizing it will only make things worse. And I know it will happen. We gave our son a nickname (actually it developed over time from one thing into the final name it is now). I never knew that the name we thought we had created turns out to be a slang term that people use for black people in Italian. Neither my husband nor myself are Italian. Never heard this term EVER in my life. Only recently discovered it was bad when a filter on a computer game prevented us from typing it in. We googled it and discovered what it was. Now -- the name that we have been lovingly calling him (and he calls himself) has been tainted and I cringe if he says it in public. I don't think it would be fair for someone to assume that I gave him the nickname purposefully or that I was unconsciously racist for not realizing it. Sometimes -- it just happens. All you can do is learn from it and move on.
careycarey — September 2, 2009
Scar, what you've said should have been the central point of the discussion. You admitted that you didn't know the Italian "name" was a racist slur - okay. Know that you know, you probably wouldn't direct it at anyone that may be ooffended by it. Okay, the central issue in this discussion is not rather or not it was racist by intent, but simply because it DOES offend others. Your statement about the woman that had the T-shirt "“Uppity Negress" is a glaring example of how "you" reacted to something that had nothing to do with you. Also, your take on the 4th of July is again, something that's rooted in "your" perceptions. As a black person, I've never heard that view of the 4th.Get my point. Racist, offensive, walking on eggs, etc, is born in the person. Simply put, if someone tells you who they are, believe them. Meaning: if something is offensive to another, don't do it. Like you said, you didn't know many things about your friends culture, he didn't get offended when the two of you talked about sensitive issues. That probably because you didn't try to justify a wrong act and you didn't poo-poo his emotions. Racist intent and displaying racially sensitive items/material are to totally different animals
Here's something you might not know. To tell a black person that you have a black "friend" will be met with a discerning eye. Your comments will become suspect. Not that you meant any harm but that statement will be seen as slanted qualifier. We all should watch what we say. We are responsible for our words. If someone tells me they don't like something - I should say, okay. What would be my purpose in telling them what shouldn't offend them?
Concerns About Racism Are “Weird” » Sociological Images — September 3, 2009
[...] recently posted about a baby doll pulled from Costco shelves after concerns that it was racist. Early news stories reported on a black doll called “Lil’ Monkey” and a white [...]
baerana — September 3, 2009
So, you could make a line of dolls holding a monkey in the three races some biologists acknowledge (Caucasian, negroid, mongoloid) or the 100-some races KKK members think there are (upper-Spanish, dark-Spanish, Moorish, I don't know, they have nuances involving defining your race including everyone you've ever met or everywhere you've ever been and then, of course, the "one true white") or anything in between, but if you have a black doll with a monkey, it's still racist, not inclusive? No matter what?
I'm asking this because I actually want to know. The original story (black doll w/ monkey, white doll w/ panda) pissed me off. Three colors of dolls, with both animals, just confuses me. Seems inclusive, rather than racist. (Though treating Hispanic as a race still pisses me off, but that's not what this is focused on.)
I'm now raising a black kid - and I do hope "I have a black step-son" isn't something met w/ as much skepticism as "I have a black friend" - and while I'm suddenly seeing racist undertones everywhere - seeing a display w/ all 6 of these dolls wouldn't have caused me to bat an eye.
femme noir — September 4, 2009
I wonder if Costco ever would consider selling Black, Hispanic and White dolls with a cap labelled "lil cracker." It certainly would not have the same meaning on the black and hispanic dolls, as it would on the white doll.
J — September 9, 2009
It didn't matter if it was in all nationalities if comments were not made 100 or more years ago referring blacks to apes, or monkeys then maybe blacks wouldn't have been offended. Come on, you have to look at the whole picture, seriously....If it had never been referred to amongst alot of things that blacks had to go through in their lives, then maybe they wouldn't get offended by things as such or complain as many would say, if they were treated equal from the beginning of time,then maybe all this wouldn't be going on...
From the Publisher – Costco pulled the Black “Lil’ Monkey” baby doll from its shelves, along with its white “Pretty Panda” « The Political Agitator — September 10, 2009
[...] Associations of black people with monkeys and apes have been used for centuries to make them seem less-than-human and justify hatred and exploitation. This associations continue to be propagated (e,g., here, here, and here). This week Costco pulled the black “Lil’ Monkey” baby doll from its shelves, along with its white “Pretty Panda” counterpart, as a result of protests that it was racist. (Read More @ Sociological Images) [...]
Anonymous — September 13, 2009
You know what? Why don't the you read the history of the world from the 1200's to the present and you may find out that people were not even being asked what they thought. The indigenous native americans and the black slaves were not considered "human". We have "matured"(?) somewhat. But, the whole issue of constantly calling ourselves by races is what keeps us apart from ourselves. I am American because I was born in the United States of America. It doesn't matter to me that I come from descendants from Mexico and before that from Spain and who knows where before that. I live in today's world. Which by the way is the same one that has been around for 4.6 billion years. Now that is a number that is hard to profile as racist. Propaganda has been used for millennia and the needs of the few outweigh the needs of the many. I stay with the many because the few are the ones who lack the courage and the strength to see how puny their minds and hearts are. I say throw the dolls back in their face and tell them to get it right. We all bleed red and we all have feelings and most of us want the same thing - equal rights, equal freedom and the right to live with peace, security, and happiness. God Bless America. It's still the greatest nation in the world!!!
Deborah Green — September 16, 2009
All i can say is that this is a sad world we live in when people of any color, race, or creed do not seem the offensive nature of this doll. Why "Lil Monkey"? With so many names that could have been given to this doll, why this one? To all whom are of a racist nature, feeling and belief, this means nothing to you, because that is your mindset and how you think of blacks. To the person who says that there was probably no one high up in the ranks at the company that was black and qualified to be in in a position to do something about this and voice their opinion,you have a sick mind and should not hide behind the signature "anonymous", let yourself be known for what and who you are. My question is this, if the company knew they were producing a "white" version and a "black version" just to simplify and be fair, they both should have been named "Pretty Panda". Look at Barbie who has been around for years, they did not change Barbie's name when black versions of the doll was being produced. As for the person who says' just take the hat off that says "Lil Monkey", and let your child play with the doll, believe me that is not the solution either. And I find you to be out of touch with reality if you think that would be a solution.
To All Americans who are offended or not, for us to be in the year 2009 and to have a black president running our country, to you I say concentrate on that. Focus on the fact that we as Americans for once put race aside and focused on who was best qualified to sit in that position of such power. For once forget about the doll, do not purchase it if you are offended by it. Forget about it because in this country we have bigger and more important things to focus on. As for your children, girls and boys alike, teach them to be proud of who and what they are and where they come from. But most importantly, teach them that in life they will always come across people who have the mindset of those who produced and named this doll and of those who find nothing offensive about it. Those people are not important and play no role in their lives.
JillianP — September 16, 2009
I think that the fact that the dolls come in other ethic/animal combos definitely changes things. If you want to get into the names of things, why should we have "bratz" dolls? Not a very positive connotation at all. I think that babies and young children, (i have two) would see the toy and think, "now i can play baby and eat pretend bananas with my monkey or panda friend." And yet, we have people getting upset about a cheap toy for babies, when they would rather buy their children toys that sell sex, beauty and fame, ie, Hannah Montana, aforementioned Bratz Dolls, and most Disney princess stuff. Most parents I see are completely oblivious to what is actually teach their children about life. Hannah Montana can get lippy with her father and the laugh track is cued and something quirky happens. I think we can agree that children today have no manners. As far as racism goes, firstly, racism will never be completely eradicated as long as there are human beings, secondly, racism won't get any better at all if we continue to recognize it where it is not.
Sam R — September 17, 2009
I think this is very telling, "I’m not sure why none of the media coverage I came across noted this.".
It is because if the population knew this there would have been no controversy and no articles about the controversy for the media to write about.
Mundo Cani Dog — September 17, 2009
The problem, as is evident from the wide array of comments posted out here, is that no one is agrees on what racism is.
I've never known a time when white and black people didn't eat together, work together, shop together, go to school together, etc.
I live in a time, where there are such exclusionary events in play where racism must be present, but because I don't understand what racism is, I don't care about the racism that is inherent in them. By "them" I mean Black History Month, Miss Black USA, Miss Black Universe, affirmative action, etc.
I think most people in the U.S. are in the same boat these days. We no longer know what racism looks like, because racism as it was in part of our history no longer exists.
Maybe the makers of this little black baby doll were trying to send out racial undertones. To mask these tones, they also produced the white and Hispanic versions of the doll. Sounds stupid to me, but obviously that's where some people allow their thinking to take them.
But if we had a proper understanding of what racism is, then we would know without a doubt. So, what exactly is racism?
CareyCarey — September 17, 2009
Sharon, your analogy is terribly flawed. Eating a fruit or a cracker is in no way similar to being tagged as a monkey. If a person was eating a saltine cracker, and was asked by another what was on their mind, I doubt they'd say a white redneck. Come on Sharon, who said an African American parent does not let their children play with monkey dolls.
Let me ask you this question ....what offends you? Okay, I can assume there are some parts of life or people that have offended you - right? Consequently nobody has control of your emotions. So it's not the media "telling" someone how to act.
Sharon, you're missing the point. But, I understand, I really do. Take for instance a thief. Now when a person yells "STOP THIEF", what does the thief do? He runs faster. Pointing out racism to a racist is along the same lines. They are not concerned with how they may offend someone. A thief will make excuses. He'll tell you "why" he had to steal. Racism is a cousin to all the problems people don't want to see, because then they may have to find a solution. If it isn't broke, don't fix it - right?
Sharon, show us that we should respect your opinion. Do you see why some may completely turn you off?
careycarey — September 17, 2009
Sharon ...."No one did, the question was entirely rhetorical to illustrate the point that we do not imbue racial meaning into every aspect of our lives"
It may have been written as a rhetorical question, but it still sidestepped the issue.
Here's another example of how you're wandering off: "To use your analogy, if an african american child was playing with a monkey doll and someone watching was asked what was on their mind, I doubt they would be comparing the looks of the doll and the child nor would their mind wander to the history of the usage of the word monkey"
Actually, you've made my point. In your analogy, you failed to add "a doll with the words "lil monkey" on it's head". Following that theme, your explaination of the word "cracker" still fails to attach the word to the subject. Did you wish to address the issue of "YOU" being offended? Lets come back. Again, if "YOU" were offended by another, would it be right for me or anyone to speak for you? You insist on blaming the media. Someone obviously brought this to their attention. You appear to be projecting the problem away from the source. Regardless of the "intent", the FACT remains that the displaying of such dolls offends some cultures - period. This seems to be a cut and dry issue. You error, when you try to tell someone else what should and shouldn't bother themWhat is it that you are not understanding.
Deborah Green — September 17, 2009
Bottom line, whites have referred to blacks as apes, monkeys, etc. for ages. No I do not like the doll being referred to as lil monkey and of all the names they could have given the doll especially with the background of blacks being referred to as monkeys, you people amaze me with your out of touch ramblings of why blacks should not be offended by this. You are out of touch, blind, stupid or plain ignorant to what is going on here, and I don't intend to waste my time and energy trying to make you people see why this doll is offensive. Get real and get a clue. Do not contact me, I don't care to listen to what you have to say.
Carrie Hughes — September 19, 2009
Well I just want to know where this doll is sold. My daughter is bi-racial and we gave her the nickname "Monkey" and I want to buy her one.
‘Lil Monkey’ doll causes controversy « Media Diversity — October 5, 2009
[...] blog that featured the story stresses the sociological issues and the questions surrounding the [...]
Polygenism: the link to primates « Kew Chronicles — November 3, 2009
[...] very good example of this comes in the form an article I came across recently. The retailer of the Dolls in that article has since taken necessarily [...]
The Compton Cookout: Racism, Resistance, and Backlash » Sociological Images — March 2, 2010
[...] and inequality. We’ve posted about it in response to racist products (Mr. Wasabi, the Black “Lil’ Monkey” doll, and the Obama sock monkey) as well as anti-rape campaigns. As I wrote in a previous post: [...]
The Walmart Barbie Scandal » Sociological Images — March 11, 2010
[...] faced this kind of problem when it’s black Lil’ Monkey doll was pulled from shelves. It turned out that the Lil’ Monkey doll came in three different races, but the black doll [...]
A Handful Of… Companies That Could Go Back To The Drawing Board « monkeyBLOGmonkeyDO – Peeling Away @ Pop Culture — April 25, 2010
[...] Eloquence is not my strong suit, so check out Sociological Images’ take on this [...]
Black “Lil' Monkey” Baby Doll » Sociological Images | Baby Images — August 3, 2010
[...] more: Black “Lil' Monkey” Baby Doll » Sociological Images Posted in My, The, Uncategorized, With, You, an, and, at, babies, baby, children, i, in, la, young [...]
Pleading » Blog Archive » african american babies pictures — June 7, 2011
[...] Black “Lil' Monkey” Baby Doll В» Sociological Images Aug 16, 2009 … Come on Sharon, who said an African American parent does not let their children play with monkey … [...]
Jacob reyes — January 16, 2012
All gay this website is totally gay
Attitudes About Race | Erin V Echols — February 27, 2012
[...] of various racial/ethnic groups in movies,sports, politics, comedy, toys, advertisements, costumes [...]
Joe Gardiner — March 5, 2013
Well if they didn't hate blacks, they do now. he he
josiah4america — April 25, 2013
We all make racist comments have racist thoughts and live up to stereotypes do i agree with it no but its life racisum exists in many forms in many cultures and with these lil monkey dolls i dont really see it as being racist there are bigger things going on in the world to think about if i toy is racist just dot but it problem solved
Chelsea — May 2, 2013
It is sad that people take this as racism whatbwould have been racist is if they would have not made a black doll ... that would insinuate that the maker was racist a correlated monkey with a racist slur..... monkies in general are well liked among children.... and not to mention many people call their children monkies black white etc. They made the doll in all colors ...not to mention the kids are not going to see it as racism, they are going to see a little white doll or a little black doll that comes with a monkey to play with. Yes racism does exist still... but I find it highly doubtful that the creator of this toy wanted to be racist because if he did there would have only been black dolls ...
Fart — March 1, 2014
They look like monkeys more so than most whites that's a fact jack
asghar ahmed — March 17, 2014
so cool
Anonymous — June 26, 2014
An underlying problem is that we keep buying too much crap for our children and they are never satisfied with what they have so companies keep having to come up with new and different stuff all the time because parents just can't say NO to kids. This by no means absolves the company for insensitivity.
Zach R — August 30, 2014
Darwin?... Aren't we all descendants of apes? Seriously, quit being hyper sensitive.
Many black people despise hyper-sensitive dim-witted black racists. To be racist is to be an A-hole about race - and you can do so by being blatently offensive or by being ridiculously overly sensitive, making a big deal out of nothing and picking at scabs.
http://youtu.be/5f0mVn0HH6U
Miranda Kaye Moyer — October 18, 2014
I thought the doll was cute until I found out that the term could be interpreted as racist. It baffles me how society could be so cruel as to take an innocent little phrase and turn it ugly. I have heard many Moms and Dads (white, black, asian, hispanic, etc.) call their babies and toddlers "lil' monkey" because they get into everything. What the toy company should have done is feature the white doll with the same theme instead of the panda. Or feature a series of white and black dolls with various animals (i.e. each animal has a white doll and a black doll). The dolls are adorable, they just missed the mark a bit.
Rhonda Jones — December 5, 2014
It's just a doll get over yourselfs, if it were ment to be racist it would have been really dark and would have had "RED" lips. The fact that lil monkey comes in Hispanic and White, means you ALL took this way out of proportion.
That's one thing i cant stand about people these days
"YOU DONT READ PROPERLY", you all just get angry at first sight.
Kindhearted American — February 18, 2016
Everyone should take a class at their Community College called American Studies. It looks at the facts of being an American. And dispels the idea of "Race" we are all of the Human race. Our ancestors came from various countries. And a lot of us that have "white" skin may of come from the UK. and don't need much melanin because that region is primarily cool and cloudy. Sometimes depressing. The sun doesn't shine much in the UK. It is green and lush with rolling hills. Those people with a lot of melanin have variations of darker skin because their Ancestors came from Arid & beautiful reagions of the world where the sun shines brightly. And the temperature is higher so they need protection from the sun.They absorb more readily vitamin D from the sun. Countries closer to the equator Both Latin and African Americans are born with built In sunscreen. Also effecting their lessor absorbtion of vitamin D. Which means they are not in need of so much vitamin D. Respectively Because their Ancestors came from countries near the equator. We can all learn good and positive things from each other. Can we Please concentrate on our individual likeness'? If we stop and think about it. We may find that the "fear" of the person sitting next to us, causes us to keep silent and perpetuate the idea that we hate each other. When in fact we all have more things alike. Than we do things that differ! We all are truly human and we all eat and cook and use soap. Most of us have gone to school. Try to start a conversation with someone next to you, My concept may sound very naive, or childlike but I dare you or even just sincerely ask you to try it. Lets see If one person at a time, can we bring all of us to a better place. you might feel a lot freer as a person, also Black or White we are all more alike than different.
tl;dr I am simply saying that we as humans. Can bridge gaps in communication by keeping things simple. We all have basic human needs. Mentioning those things can lessen differences.