As a passionate fan and someone who deeply appreciates cultural sensitivity, I wholeheartedly applaud Simu Liu for his courageous stand against cultural appropriation during his appearance on Dragon’s Den. His personal connection to bubble tea and its Taiwanese roots, combined with his understanding of the importance of respect and education, made him an ideal advocate for this cause.
Simu Liu is all about educating.
The Marvel actor made the same move when he featured on a television show similar to Shark Tank, namely Dragon’s Den, broadcasted by CBC. In a clip from the Oct. 10 episode that has since become popular online, the proprietors of a Quebec-based bubble tea company called Bobba were seeking investors to expand their business of ready-to-drink boba teas, and asked for an investment of $1 million.
Following the presentation of their unique beverage, canned or bottled with tapioca pearls that burst within it, Simu voiced a few queries concerning this innovative product.
Simu expressed apprehension towards the thought of altering or interfering with bubble tea, as it holds a special significance for him due to its strong connection with his cultural background.
Simu went on, “Additionally, there’s a matter of cultural appropriation. It’s problematic when something uniquely Asian is taken, improved upon, and then claimed as superior, which I strongly object to.
In a later conversation, the actor associated with Barbie inquired from the entrepreneurs about the regard they show towards conventional boba, and whether any individuals of Asian descent participate in its creation. Moreover, Simu questioned the unusual spelling of their product’s name, which includes an extra “b.
The entrepreneurs clarified that they indeed work with partners from Taiwan and make trips to the country too. However, this didn’t satisfy Simu entirely.
The Marvel actor mentioned he was researching about bobas’ origin, and he found out they are from Taiwan.
Instead of choosing to invest in the company, Simu expressed his decision by stating that he was “supporting a business which appears to be benefitting from something deeply connected to my cultural background.
In the end, the founders of the company found an investor in one of the other board members.
After the popular video, Simu posted a TikTok expressing disapproval of individuals who have been issuing threats against the entrepreneurs and the investor woman on social networking sites.
He asserted, “It’s never acceptable to issue threats or engage in bullying and harassment. While I recognize that business owners might face legitimate criticism, and it’s essential to express your disagreement, let’s not forget that we should promote education and work towards improving the world. We should educate people about what is considered unacceptable from a cultural standpoint.
He went on to say, “I’m convinced that the founders appeared on ‘Shark Tank’ in good sincerity to present their business idea. Despite points of contention and disagreements with their pitch, I opted out as a potential investor. However, this doesn’t imply that I think they deserved abuse or threats. Given their French-Canadian background, I believe they may have been unfamiliar with such cultural discussions. Additionally, it seems English might not be their native tongue, which could have hindered their readiness to respond.
Simu expressed that during his time on Dragon’s Den, he got help from producers, investors, and others who were interested in understanding his worries. In summary, the Shang-Chi star urged everyone to show kindness.
He expressed, “It seems I’m merely requesting understanding and kindness.” He also added, “Once more, thank you for your encouraging words. They mean a great deal to me.
In an Oct. 13 TikTok post, the founders of Bobba shared a lengthy apology.
Though we meant well, we acknowledge the consequences and are ready to accept responsibility for them. We plan to reassess our branding, product packaging, and marketing approaches to make sure they honor our Taiwanese collaboration authentically and correctly depict the cultural heritage of bubble tea.
The creators also pledged to delve deeper into the repercussions of cultural misappropriation, while simultaneously denouncing the violent threats and expressions of hate.
They expressed their sincere desire for an opportunity to make amends, also conveying that they aim to prove they can improve.
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2024-10-14 21:47