I have a theory that if you treat yourself as oppressed you will be oppressed. If you cry for gay rights and simply do not behave as if you have them you are setting yourself back. You cannot be ‘mainstream’ or accepted if you constantly draw attention to your differences or are offended at the slightest infractions. Humans insult humans. It’s what we do and right or wrong it will never change. A kinder, gentler nation will never be.
That being said the Native American community got all puffed out over the latest No Doubt video for the song “Looking Hot”. Why? Stereotypes perhaps but if you see the video below (and it hasn’t been outlawed and pulled off the internet and scalped) you’ll see a fun and artistic tale of cowboys and Indians. I don’t hear any cowboys bitching about how they’re portrayed and they look a whole lot worse than the Native Americans do. Yeah, I said Native American so as not to offend. We are so damn worried about offending one another over asinine things like Native American vs. Indian or African American vs. Black that it’s laughable. We can offend each other all day and not blink but label someone and you’d better get it right.
Anyway the band apologized and released the following statement
"As a multi-racial band our foundation is built upon both diversity and consideration for other cultures. Our intention with our new video was never to offend, hurt or trivialize Native American people, their culture or their history. Although we consulted with Native American friends and Native American studies experts at the University of California, we realize now that we have offended people.
"This is of great concern to us and we are removing the video immediately. The music that inspired us when we started the band, and the community of friends, family, and fans that surrounds us was built upon respect, unity and inclusiveness. We sincerely apologize to the Native American community and anyone else offended by this video. Being hurtful to anyone is simply not who we are."
Sad they had to do that but I respect what they felt right. Personally I would have written the following
“Get over it, no harm intended”
But I suppose that’s not politically correct.