Rihanna Article Backlash Leads To Editor's Resignation

Dutch magazine Jackie says story 'had no racial motive at its basis.'
By Jocelyn Vena

Rihanna
Photo: Getty Images

After Rihanna took to Twitter to respond to a racial slur used by Dutch fashion magazine Jackie in a recent article written about her, the magazine's editor-in-chief, Eva Hoeke, has resigned from her position at the publication.

In a press release translated by Parlourmagazine.com, the publishers of Jackie attempt to break down the sequence of events, including a Facebook apology from Hoeke about the article, followed by Rihanna's tweets in response, and confirm that the editor has resigned, effective immediately.

"I realize that my first reaction through Twitter, in which I indicated that it was a joke, has been an incomplete description of what me, and also the author of the article, meant. The term 'n---abitch' came from America and we solely used it to describe a style of dress. Because of the enormous pressure through social media I was tempted to promise amendment regarding the language in future issues of Jackie," Hoeke says in the lengthy statement.

"Apart from that I also offered a rectification. I have now come to the conclusion that rectification is not the right solution. I regret that I have taken a stand too quickly regarding an article in Jackie — which moreover had no racial motive at its basis. Through the course of events, me and the publisher have concluded that because my credibility is now affected, it is better for all parties if I quit my function as editor-in-chief effective immediately," it continues.

"After putting my heart and soul into for Jackie for eight years, I realize that these errors — although not intended maliciously — are enough reason for leaving. ... I should have counted to ten before taking un-nuanced stands through social media channels."

The magazine has extended an invitation to Rihanna "to share her feelings and thoughts on the article in the next issue." A rep for the singer had not responded to MTV News' request for comment as of press time.

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Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1676311/rihanna-dutch-magainze-jackie-editor-resignation.jhtml

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