Marion Barry Offers Apology to Asians
Marion Barry, former mayor of Washington D.C. and now a council member, has issued a public apology after remarks he made targeting the Asian community and their businesses.
Marion Barry, who represents Ward 8, issued his apology after comments earlier this week during his primary election victory rally on Tuesday.
"We got to do something about these Asians coming in and opening up businesses and dirty shops," the 76 year-old said.
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"They ought to go. I'm going to say that right now. But we need African-American businesspeople to take their places, too," he added.
There were several city officials that were outraged over the councilman's comments. Mayor Vincent Gray and Council Chairman Kwame Brown were vocal in their disappointment.
"I am deeply disappointed by Council member Barry's comment," Gray said in a statement.
"There is no room in this wonderfully diverse city for comments that disparage anyone on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, disability or sexual orientation," he continued.
However, before his apology Barry explained that his words were taken out of context and that his record shows that he supports all types of people.
"Let me make it clear, I'm not castigating any group of people. I'm not doing anything except trying to have a renaissance of our community and get some respect," Barry said.
The councilman then tried to explain his comments were highlighting the fact that there are some local business owners who are not participating in the local community.
"A number of these restaurants serve high caloric food, bad food, etc., but the more important thing, they don't participate in the community. ... That's what I object to, I don't care who it is."
After repeated requests from various groups as well as a Facebook page being created calling for his apology, Barry offered this public apology.
"I want to express my deep apology for offending some members of the Asian community and the D.C. community," he told AP.
"I have a solid record of relationships with the Asian community," he added.
