Aunt Jemima, Uncle Ben's Become the Latest Victims of Cancel Culture

Clay Robinson | June 17, 2020
DONATE
Font Size

Almost one week after the Onion published a satirical piece on Quaker’s decision to replace the “historically racist” Aunt Jemima brand, their humor has become a reality. 

After a video bashing bashed the Aunt Jemima brand for its "racist" origins went viral on Twitter, Quaker Oats announced this week that the company will be removing the famous image of "Aunt Jemima," a black woman, as part of an effort “to make progress towards racial equality.”

According to NBC News, Aunt Jemima was based on a black woman who was originally dressed as a minstrel character. The company website says the logo was inspired by a formerly enslaved woman, Nancy Green, who was a “storyteller, missionary and cook.”

Quaker has attempted to revise the brand several times in the past to be “appropriate and respectful,” but said the changes were insufficient. 

Soon after Quaker announced the changes to the Aunt Jemima logo, the Uncle Ben’s brand followed suit, also announcing that the company will be “evolving” the visual identity of its rice products.

According to Reuters, Mars said in a statement that they have a “responsibility to take a stand in helping put an end to racial bias and injustices.” There is currently no timeline as to when the changes will take place, but Quaker said packaging changes to the Aunt Jemima brand will be seen in stores as soon as this Fall.

The only clear winner of this latest development in cancel culture is Mrs. Butterworth, as she crosses off another competitor off her list. 

donate