16 Dec 2018

Miss USA apologises for calling out non-English speaking Miss Universe contestants

Cape Town - Miss USA Sarah Rose Summers has released a statement after she receiving backlash for calling out non-English speaking contestants at the Miss Universe pageant.

The original video was reportedly captured on Miss Colombia, Valeria Morales', Instagram Live during a broadcast from the Miss Universe preliminary competition on Thursday.

Miss Colombia and Miss Australia were also present in the video.

ALSO READ: Tamaryn Green makes SA proud at Miss Universe preliminary competition

In the controversial two-part video dubbed by many as "racist," the 24-year-old comments on Miss Cambodia and Miss Vietnam's ability to peak English language. (Read the full story here)

The beauty queen issued a lengthy apology on her Instagram on Thursday, writing: "Miss Universe is an opportunity for women from around the world to learn about each other's cultures, life experiences, and views. We all come from different backgrounds and can grow alongside one another."

"I'm am grateful for opportunities to speak with Nat, Miss Cambodia, and H'Hen, Miss Vietnam, directly about this experience. These are the moments that matter most to me," she added.

The caption is accompanied by a photo of Miss USA hugging Miss Cambodia.

READ THE FULL POST HERE:

View this post on Instagram

@MissUniverse is an opportunity for women from around the world to learn about each other’s cultures, life experiences, and views. We all come from different backgrounds and can grow alongside one another. In a moment where I intended to admire the courage of a few of my sisters, I said something that I now realize can be perceived as not respectful, and I apologize. My life, friendships, and career revolve around me being a compassionate and empathetic woman. I would never intend to hurt another. I am grateful for opportunities to speak with Nat, Miss Cambodia, and H’Hen, Miss Vietnam, directly about this experience. These are the moments that matter most to me.
A post shared by Sarah Rose Summers (@sarahrosesummers) on Dec 13, 2018 at 9:41am PST

ALSO READ: 25 Miss Universe national costumes you have to see - including Miss South Africa!

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred

Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.

Join News24 today

description

username

Show Comments ()