'British Colonial Co.' restaurant accused of racism responds online
A new restaurant in Brisbane, Australia has been accused of racism on social media Monday.
British Colonial Co. has been on the receiving end of criticism for its name and concept which appears to revel in the conquests and culture of the British Empire of old.
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That description has since been altered on Monday afternoon, sans reference to the plundering of other cultures, somewhat. It now reads "A refined and modern dining experience with the adventure of east meets west in a plantation style, club setting."
Nevertheless, the name of the restaurant and its celebration of British imperialism did not impress many on Twitter.
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Australia's history is an imperialist one, being a British colony with a strong slave trade, including domestic, missionary and agricultural slavery -- which tens of thousands of Indigenous peoples and South Sea Islanders were victims of.
The restaurant has issued a statement via email, "upset" at articles that the British Colonial Co. brand was causing offence.
"We are very proud of our brand, dining experience and the loyal clientele we have established since opening in July this year. British Colonial Co was founded on the principles of providing Brisbane foodies with relaxed, casual dining.
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"We believe that our décor and menu has great synergy with Brisbane’s climate and the expansive palette of our clientele, who are looking for a melting pot of food and beverages to enjoy in a relaxed atmosphere," the statement says.
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"We are therefore upset and saddened by today's media reports that our brand is causing offence and distress to some members of the community. This certainly was not our intention. As a small local business, we strive to be the best we can, and we are committed to improving our service wherever possible."
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It's not the first time the name of a restaurant in the city of Brisbane has attracted controversy. Uncle Ho, an upmarket Vietnamese restaurant, attracted ire from the local Vietnamese community in April for its explicit reference to North Vietnamese communist leader Ho Chi Minh.
Uncle Ho changed its name to Uncle Bia Hoi, then to Aunty Oh's Bia Hoi, before closing down in July.