First Nations ATINYs are expressing concern over a comment made by ATEEZ‘s Yunho that is considered culturally insensitive.
In the most recent episode of ATEEZ’s show Curse Of The Money Hole, Yunho (as well as the host of the show) reportedly made a joke in which he made inappropriate use of the word ‘Indian.’ The host was wearing a pirate costume, which Yunho joked about saying that it was suitable for playing ‘Indian Poker.’ They then joked about him looking ‘like an Indian,’ and other members of ATEEZ laughed, leading to some discomfort for First Nations ATINYs.
‘Indian Poker’ is an alternative name for ‘Blind Man’s Poker,’ a version of poker in which the players hold their cards to their heads so that they can’t see them but others can. The game was called ‘Indian Poker’ due to the basic similarity between a First Nations headdress and how the cards look on a player’s head. Due to its insensitivity, the name is now seldom used, with ‘Blind Man’s Poker’ being the preferable option.
ATINYs are now expressing deep concern over the way Yunho made use of the word ‘Indian.’ This is due to the fact that the word is rooted in misconception about First Nations people, and has a long history of being used to subjugate, demean, and dismiss them.
ATINYs who identify as First Nations have pointed out how frustrating it is that the term continues to be used when First Nations people already have their own preferred names.
Yet, as they call out the ill-usage of the word, ATINYs are hoping to inform the members of ATEEZ about the issue rather than see them attacked.
oh yeah one last thing (not going to speak on this topic as it’s not my place but) no one is saying they hate ateez or yunho they simply want yunho and the members to know that jokes like those are inappropriate and can cause harm, no one is trying to hate on them
— tia ⩜⃝ (@dazzlingsua) July 17, 2022
I shared something ATEEZ did that made me, as a native person, rlly uncomfortable and I really really hope no one or no anti’s begin to attack them!!! I don’t want that. I don’t think they’re malice toward any group of ppl, it was just a really bad joke they should apologize for
— laia (@laiabot) July 17, 2022
This is in large part because ATEEZ have proven that they are considerate and open-minded artists, which is evidenced by the fact that leader Hongjoong himself once asked fans to always hold him and the group accountable.
please just remember that hongjoong has literally said that they want to be told when atz have done something wrong. please listen to those effected and don’t push it aside just bc it does’t effect you. no-ones saying to attack here, but pls listen and help
— jongho’s personal assistant (@W00YOUNGSLIGHT) July 17, 2022
Not only that, but he also gained praise from ATINYs for being open about his desire to be always mindful and inclusive of all people.
Therefore, given that Hongjoong and ATEEZ have expressed their willingness to take responsibility for their mistakes, ATINYs believe informing them of this particular mistake is the right thing to do.
While it’s unlikely that Yunho and the members had any malicious intent with the joke, it is important that all cultures be respected. Fans hope that ATEEZ take note of the issue so that both fans and the members can move forward with mutual respect.
For further reading on the issue, Twitter user @laiabot has drawn up some great sources!
Here are (very well-written) resources on why the term “Indian” is uncomfortable for Native people:https://t.co/ezqTcgfgkNhttps://t.co/k4iXbiFIuThttps://t.co/RhR3QGHnCR
// #6https://t.co/PnsUuTOEQQhttps://t.co/Mut9xmku4G— laia (@laiabot) July 17, 2022
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