Google has been compelled to issue an apology after it attracted public backlash for making a racist comment on the company's Africa page on X.
In a post that was meant to attract engagement, Google called on followers to share their craziest football stories while emphasizing the fact that the game of football is the most common game on the continent of Africa.
In what seemed to be an attempt at humor, the post alluded that the most common game is not hide-and-seek with lions.
"Here's Africa's most common game. No, it's not hide-and-seek with lions (although that sounds exciting). It's football! Share your craziest football stories with us. We're all about that kick it life," the post stated.
However, several users on the social media platform were quick to point out a racist undertone to the post, specifically the attempt to feed into a stereotype about Africa.
"'Google Africa' being openly racist is wilder than wild," @_FarouqOlami commented.
"What's with this stereotype of a whole continent, @googleafrica? Africa is diverse with rich cultures and modern cities. Why couldn't you celebrate the sport without the 'hide-and-seek with lions' reference?" another user, @Uchedible, posted.
Meanwhile, Google has since deleted the post and issued an apology, noting that the post was intended as humor.
"We sincerely apologize for our tweet today. Our intent was humor, but we missed the mark and offended many. We will strive to do better," the company said.
We sincerely apologize for our tweet today. Our intent was humor, but we missed the mark & offended many. We will strive to do better.
— Google in Africa (@googleafrica) June 23, 2024
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