Letters to the Editor

Re: The Davies Advertisement

Dear Editors in Chief,

I am hoping to continue the discussion related to the issue of the Davies advertisement. I think the progression of the conversation reflects a need in our school community to more actively and respectfully listen to the voices of our peers. One type of reaction to this ad seems to be premised first on the claim that it was just a joke, and second, that even if it was offensive, Davies’ intentions were innocent. In response to the former I would say that the fact is, some people were offended. Shouldn’t that be enough to make us stop and think about why?

In her letter to the editor, law student Kisha Munroe certainly gave us a number of explanations to consider regarding why this ad is problematic. For example, the very serious concern that Davies is belittling the gravity of current and historic slavery. But it wasn’t until members of Osgoode faculty wrote to Davies that the ad was pulled.

However, instead of really listening to her commentary, some ran to the defence of Davies before the firm could be called “racist”, a taboo label. Besides, as the argument goes, Davies didn’t intend to offend. Is this really an excuse? If Davies had used the ‘N’ word instead, intending to be humorous, would we really have just laughed it off and said they meant well? I would hope not. I think we can agree that sometimes, intention just doesn’t matter.

So how do we draw the line between what’s appropriate and what isn’t? Of course there’s no easy answer, but one way to start is by listening. After all, if we’re quick to say we’re not racist, but continually ignore the opinion of those subjected to racism, what does that say?

I’m looking forward to more dialogue,
Mika Imai