A Controversial Lunar New Year Skit Sparks Racial Backlash
What Went Down
During China’s highly‑watched Lunar New Year gala, actress Lou Naiming took the stage in a colorful costume that painted her face and arms brown. She carried a fruit basket on her head while a performer in a monkey suit joined her. The setup, intended as a comedic sketch, quickly turned into a hotbed of criticism on Chinese social media.
Why It Got Off‑Track
- Racial Appearance – The deliberate use of brown makeup to make Lou look like an African sparked accusations of racism.
- Sidekick Controversy – The monkey character added a layer of cultural insensitivity that many viewers found offensive.
- Global Spotlight – Western outlets picked up the story, amplifying the discussion beyond China’s borders.
China’s Official Response
Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang spoke out on a daily news briefing:
“China consistently opposes any form of racism. I watched the skit myself. If anyone tries to magnify this incident and stir discord between China and African nations, that effort is doomed to fail.”
“Our relationship with Africa is solid—African countries and their people know how good our cooperation truly is.”
The state broadcaster hasn’t commented yet, but the spokesperson’s message underscores Beijing’s stance on international relations.
Context and Broader Implications
- Emerging Conversations on Race – In a society dominated by the Han majority yet home to many minorities and a growing foreign presence, open discussions about racism are not yet mainstream.
- Past Missteps – A 2016 advertisement by a laundry detergent company showed a black man literally turning into a fair‑skinned Asian after a wash, leading to a public apology.
- China‑Africa Ties – Beijing’s growing economic partnership with Africa aims to secure resources while asserting that aid comes with no strings.
Looking Ahead
The diplomatic narrative is set to be in focus later this year, with a summit that brings together leaders from countless African nations. In the meantime, the incident forces both sides to reflect on how cultural representation can bridge or widen divides.
