(ProsperNews.net) – Boston’s first Asian-American mayor, Michelle Wu, issued an apology for a holiday party invitation that excluded White people, acknowledging the offense it caused. The invitation, labeled “Electeds of Color Holiday Party,” initially went out to all Boston City Council members, even though seven of them were White.
The event, held at City Hall, faced significant backlash for its invitations based on race, drawing disapproval from council members and social media users. While the email invite was initially sent to all council members, a follow-up email later informed white members that they were not invited. This attempt to celebrate diversity backfired, raising concerns about inclusivity and potential discrimination.
On Wednesday, Wu told reporters that the invitation was not intended for White council members. She mentioned canceling the invitations about 15 minutes after the original email was sent. Wu later clarified that her office had reached out to everyone individually to explain that it was an honest mistake.
In an interview, she said, “We’ve all been in that awkward situation where an email was sent, and there was a mistake in the recipient.” She also stated, “I want our city to once again be a place that follows our values and makes room for all kinds of communities to come together.”
The minority-only party proceeded as planned on Wednesday, according to local outlets. Wu’s office is also organizing a different event for all elected officials and cabinet members on another day.
The Democratic mayor defended the party, stating that she has been part of a group for over a decade that gathers elected officials of color from different government levels in Massachusetts. She emphasized that it’s an opportunity to create an environment for people to celebrate and take turns hosting.
Wu’s assistant, Denise DosSantos, who sent the email, attempted to manage the situation by sending an apology email to council members and acknowledging it was an honest mistake.
According to the Boston Herald, a White city council member frowned upon the exclusive invitation and described it as “divisive and unfortunate.”
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