Dolce & Gabbana has finally responded to weeks of protests in Hong Kong with an official apology. The label says it regrets any offence caused by a controversial photography ban outside its Tsim Sha Tsui boutique.
The store came under fire when it banned Hong Kong residents from snapping photographs of its exterior. However the restriction didn’t seem to extend to tourists, including those traveling from mainland China. The staffers were accused of racism by the locals, who felt the Chinese were given preferential treatment.
Dolce & Gabbana initially issued a statement stating that it rejected any racist or derogatory comments, and felt the company had “not taken part in any action aimed at offending the Hong Kong public.”
This didn’t satisfy the natives, who continued to protest and cause so much disruption that the store shut down on January 8. Banners encouraged Dolce & Gabbana to “apologize or get out,” so it’s taken the first option.
“We understand that the events which unfolded in front of the Dolce & Gabbana boutique on Canton Road have offended the citizens of Hong Kong, and for this we are truly sorry and we apologize,” the new statement reads. “The Dolce & Gabbana policy is to welcome the Hong Kong people and that of the whole world respecting the rights of each individual and of the local laws.“
You’ve got to question the sincerity of any apology that comes following such protests, but at least Dolce & Gabbana made it. However with the shopping rush that comes with the Chinese New Year approaching, the fashion house didn’t have a lot of choice, did it?
[Source: Fashionista]
[Image Source: Ding Yuin Shan/Flickr]
