Woman sacked over Michelle Obama racist post

Forum 7 years ago

Woman sacked over Michelle Obama racist post

After Donald Trump won the US presidential election, Pamela Ramsey Taylor, from the Clay Development Corporation, posted: "It will be refreshing to have a classy, beautiful, dignified First Lady in the White House. I'm tired of seeing an Ape in heels."

Clay's mayor, Beverly Whaling, responded: "Just made my day Pam."

The post, which was initially reported by WSAZ-TV, was shared hundreds of times before it was deleted.

Melania Trump and Michelle Obama
Image Caption:
Melania Trump is to take over the first lady role from Mrs Obama in January
An online petition was subsequently launched, calling for the sacking of both women.

Owens Brown, from the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People's West Virginia chapter, was among those calling for the removal of the women.

Mr Brown said: "I feel it's so unfortunate that people still have these racist undertones.

"Unfortunately, this is a reality that we are dealing with in America today. There's no place for these types of attitudes in our state."

State Democratic Party chairwoman Belinda Biafore apologised to Mrs Obama, writing in an email: "On behalf of my fellow Mountaineers I would like extend my sincerest apologies to First Lady Michelle Obama.

President Obama and his First Lady Michelle await the arrival of Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the North Portico of the White House
Image Caption:
Mrs Obama, a lawyer, has been praised for her efforts to encourage young women to achieve their highest potential
"West Virginia truly is better than this. These radical, hateful, and racist ideals are exactly what we at the West Virginia Democratic Party will continue to fight against. These words and actions do not represent West Virginia values.

"We will continue to fight for a West Virginia that is inclusive, not divisive and a home for all to feel safe, welcome, and protected. In a time when we are at a crossroads and many fear the future we must stand together against hate of all forms."

A local councillor stressed the Clay Development Corporation was not connected with the city of Clay itself.

African-Americans make up about 4% of West Virginia's 1.8 million residents, according to the US census.

Mr Trump was supported by about 77% of Clay County residents in the 8 November election.