The story’s kinda stupid, and it really doesn’t deserve the attention it’s getting.* Cameron Diaz was touring Peru toting an olive green bag decorated with a red star, complete with a Maoist slogan (it’s apparently fashionable in some circles). Because of Peru’s recent history with the leftist Shining Path, it’s something that breaks open recent wounds. The Peruvians weren’t real happy. Diaz has apologized.
Mao Zedong paraphenelia becoming a fashion statement? Seriously? Next thing you know, you’ll start seeing people wearing Che Guevara T-shirts everywhere even if they have no clue who he is.
Thought this was kinda odd:
One prominent Peruvian human rights activist said Diaz should have been a little more aware of local sensitivities when picking her accessories.
Righty-O. Ladies, be sure to check with the Maldives and the Vatican City–and Peru, of course–before buying your next purse. Or at least choose one not emblazoned with Communist propaganda.
Actress Diaz apologizes for Mao bag
I dunno, maybe it’s a miami thing, but i’ve seen quite a few people wear Che shirts
Che’s popular, and not just in Miami. He was on the same side as Castro, though! I’d have thought Che paraphenelia would get you beat up in Miami.
The characters “serve the people” were in Chinese. What Diaz did was akin to Asians wearing shirts with words like “Hello. We are Bone Nob” or “circuit beaver”. She just picked the back ’cause it looked neat. Not discounting the suffering of the Peruvians, but all in all an overreaction.