Ohio health officials apologise for telling black Americans to avoid 'gang symbolism' on face masks

Public health officials in Ohio were forced to issue an apology after their guidance on face masks told black Americans not to wear gang colours or symbols on home-made coverings.

The Franklin County Public Health board, which covers the state’s largest city Columbus, released a document last month addressed at “communities of colour” about wearing face masks.

In it, the officials recommended avoiding “fabrics that elicit deeply held stereotypes” such as skull or horror-themed prints or bandanas.

“When utilising a homemade mask, avoid bandanas that are red or blue, as these are typically associated with gang symbolism,” the document continued.

“It is not recommended to wear a scarf just simply tied around the head as this can indicate unsavoury behaviour, although not intended.”

But now Franklin County Public Health has tweeted an apology and admitted the guidance “came across as offensive and blaming the victims”.

“When utilising a homemade mask, avoid bandanas that are red or blue, as these are typically associated with gang symbolism,” the document continued.

“It is not recommended to wear a scarf just simply tied around the head as this can indicate unsavoury behaviour, although not intended.”

But now Franklin County Public Health has tweeted an apology and admitted the guidance “came across as offensive and blaming the victims”.

https://news.yahoo.com/coronavirus-ohio-health-officials-apologise-132054246.html