howtoapologize

[howtoapologize]

Someone did better than I could do on this one... DAN SCHNEIDER

[howtoapologize]

JD Barker Apology

Background:

https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/booktok-jd-barker-email-sexual-promotions-rcna135929

So basically, an author in his 50's solicited a bunch of teens to be naked for a really awful payment. (100 dollars)

Original Apology

On January 23rd [2024], an email went out on my behalf to known BookTok influencers without consideration of age or gender, from a company I own, detailing the framework of a social media marketing campaign meant to promote my upcoming novel, Behind A Closed Door; an erotic thriller set to release later this year. The email detailed several video ideas that were in keeping with events that occur in the book, a work of fiction. Those ideas were followed by:

"These are just suggestions. You're welcome to use them for your video or come up with something on your own. Half the fun of something like this is to let creativity rule! The content of the video is entirely up to you. As long as it's promoting BEHIND A CLOSED DOOR, it will be eligible. So get creative!"

This campaign was never approved. The email wasn't meant to go out without a substantial rewrite, but through a chain of errors, it did.

I take full responsibility for that.

I'm horrified such a message was released. And I deeply regret the hurt I've caused to those who received it.

I have nothing but respect for the writing community and the people who champion it and I've let all of you down.

I have nothing but the deepest respect for women. I'm a husband. I'm a father. There is no excuse for the insensitivity demonstrated by my actions. The weight created by those actions is inexcusable. I can and will do better.

The written word is something I cherish. Words have a power. And sometimes they can hurt more than the most dangerous weapon. Knowing I've wielded that weapon and injured is something that will weigh on me for the remainder of my days. If you were impacted by this, I am truly sorry.

Grading

1. What are they sorry for? 5/10 He didn't mention to nude soliciting to minors part or how it seemed to magically only go to women and girls. Plus he had to promote the book a bit in the apology. "an erotic thriller set to release later this year." But this goes into the deductions portion.

He then follows it with excuses, which goes into the deductions.

2. Who is he sorry to? The Tiktok Influencers. Doesn't name them, but doesn't seem to know their names. 8

3. Why was it wrong? Doesn't say beyond he has respect for women? 2

4. How would he fix it and not do it again in the future? Doesn't say. He pins it on the Marketing team. (more on that later.) 0

5. Accept full responsibility? He says he does, but it doesn't feel like it. It's reaching towards non-apology with the previous in place. 0

6. Make reparations? No. No reparations. Like donate some of his book funds to RAINN. 0

Total: 15/60: 25% That's an F. Can he get a worse grade?

Deductions:

Promoting the book:

"an erotic thriller set to release later this year."

This is not the time. -3

15-3=12

Making excuses:

"These are just suggestions. You're welcome to use them for your video or come up with something on your own. Half the fun of something like this is to let creativity rule! The content of the video is entirely up to you. As long as it's promoting BEHIND A CLOSED DOOR, it will be eligible. So get creative!"

Shooting past the point where the email said to get naked to teen girls... yeah, no. That's not how it's done. -5

"The email wasn't meant to go out without a substantial rewrite"

Yeah, what this person said. -5

"I have nothing but the deepest respect for women. I'm a husband. I'm a father."

He didn't watch the Barbie Movie where they made fun of this.

Apologies aren't about you and trying to use others as a shield. -5

So basically he lied... - 5, which is supported by the following.

He tried to pin it on a woman and her firm while being sexist. -10 (This is in the NBC article for those who use readers.) Not that sorry about hating on women.

Total Score: -13

I don't think an apology rewrite could save him in this case. The amount of PR he'd need to do wouldn't really help. Even if he donated all of the proceeds to RAINN, which he won't.

The basics, though was that he shouldn't have lied and he shouldn't have used women as a shield when he was showing being sexist.

The best action would have not even written it in the first place.

[howtoapologize]

King The Land Apology

King The Land, is a drama from JTBC. The images were taken from: https://mydramalist.com/article/king-the-land-production-team-apologizes-for-cultural-misrepresentation For the sake of mental health etc I wouldn't read the comments since the majority of the people affected are not in the comments--such as Koreans or Arabs. As someone Korean (diaspora) I can state that Korean dramas have this issue and probably the last best foreign representation was in Itaewon Class. That one was more honest. So it is a chronic problem. (I can somewhat outline why, which isn't an excuse, but that's a separate post.

Hangeul: '킹더랜드’ 관련 제작사 입장

특정 국가나 문화를 희화화하거나 왜곡할 의도가 전혀 없었으나  타 문화권에 대한 입장을 고려하지 못하고 시청자 여러분께 불편함을 끼친 점 깊은 사과의 말씀을 드립니다. 타 문화에 대한 이해와 경험, 배려가 많이 부족했음을 통감하며 이번 일을 계기로  다양한 문화권의 시청자들이 함께 즐겁게 볼 수 있는 콘텐트를 만들 수 있도록 더욱 노력하겠습니다. 영상의 문제가 되는 부분은 신속히 최선의 수정을 진행할 계획이며  제작진은 앞으로 시청에 불편함이 없도록 더욱 세심한 주의를 기울여 제작하겠습니다. 저희 콘텐트를 사랑해주시는 많은 시청자 여러분께 다시 한번 사과드립니다.

English:

We would like to express our deep and sincere apology for causing unnecessary inconvenience to our viewers without full consideration of other valued cultures although we have no intention of caricaturing or distorting any particular country or culture in the process. It has been our sharp realization that there has been a lack of understanding, experience, and consideration for other cultures. We will do our best going forward to create content that can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of where they are from and what kind of culture they have. We will take a thorough look into the part of the video which was considered problematic, and do our best to make sure that right measures are taken. We earnestly promise to our viewers that more care will be taken down the road so that there will be no inconvenience in viewing our content.

Typed up versions found here: https://tv.jtbc.co.kr/board/pr10011590/pm10067363/detail/n1757

1. What are they sorry for? Half marks here. Bad cultural representation, but not clear about whom or what? What did you get wrong?

2. Who is he sorry to? 0, General audeicnes don't cut it. Be specific on whom you're sorry o.

3. Why was it wrong? 0 No idea why it was wrong.

4. How would he fix it and not do it again in the future? 0 No explanation of this.

5. Accept full responsibility? By half. Without explaining how you will do better in the future, and just promising to reflect on what was released, it really doesn't help for the future. (And yes, I'm accounting for cultural differences).

6. Make reparations? 0 God is not the people you hurt, and the Bible said to try to make amends to the people you hurt.

Deductions: No real deductions beyond this point.

Rewritten apology: The producers of King The Land would like apologize to our Arab viewers specifically and international viewers more generally on the wrong depictions of the Arab character in our recent episode. It has come to our attention that the majority of Arabs are Muslim and we have depicted the character in our show as "enjoying women" and "drinking" which are both against the faith. We have come to realize these depictions are misunderstandings of orientalism, and we should have done more research into the culture and faith of Arabs. Moving forward, we promise to do more research before depicting a different culture or religion than ours from all parts of the department. We will reflect on our mistakes and try our best to do better for all JTBC shows in the future. Apology Score: 5-ish? Maybe 7 if less strict. It's not the worst I've seen It's not a non-apology, but it really doesn't get to the heart of the matter either. Needs improvement. A C, in letter grade, if you will. Kinda passes, but you could do much, much better and probably be yelled at by your parent for getting a C.

[howtoapologize]

https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/travel-news/tourist-apologises-for-colosseum-defacement-saying-he-had-no-idea-it-was-so-ancient-20230706-p5dm3k.html

Is this an apology or a crapology?

The full text of the apology is purposefully not online, as parts are redacted. I cannot rate an apology without the full text. However, some parts of the published apology sound like a non-apology most likely coached by his lawyer. "I admit with deepest embarrassment that it was only after what regrettably happened that I learned of the monument’s antiquity." tips into non-apology. Because that is irrelevant and an excuse and about him.

But yes, the full apology would need to be published for assessment.

[howtoapologize]

Tony Dungy Apology

There is transphobia and hatred of LGBTQ in his original. For that reason it has to go below the “read more line” Please preserve your mental health.

Original tweet text That’s nothing. Some school districts are putting litter boxes in the school bathrooms for the students who identify as cats. Very important to address every student’s needs.

9:38 1/18/23

This assertion has been debunked 

https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/misinformation/urban-myth-litter-boxes-schools-became-gop-talking-point-rcna51439

https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2022/nov/04/joe-rogan-school-litter-boxes-kids-furries-gender

https://www.cnn.com/2022/10/03/politics/scott-jennings-minnesota-schools-cat-litter-box/index.html

Apology tweet:

Text of apology tweet:

I saw a tweet yesterday and I responded to it in the wrong way. As a Christian I should speak in love and ways that are caring and helpful. I failed to do that and I am deeply sorry.

1. What is he sorry for? 0 No idea. I had to go digging for the original text.

2. Who is he sorry to? 0. No idea who he is sorry to.

3. Why was it wrong? 0 No idea why it was wrong.

4. How would he fix it and not do it again in the future? 0 No explanation of this.

5. Accept full responsibility? .1? But I’m more likely to give him zero. 0

6. Make reparations? 0 God is not the people you hurt, and the Bible said to try to make amends to the people you hurt.

Deductions:

- Appealing to God -1. What does God have to do with the people you hurt?

https://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-apologizing.html

God would not support you doing this.

Rating: Non apology -1. 

Rewrite of apology: While the original non-apology is shorter than most, I think it’s important to think about scraping it and starting through each of the steps.

I falsely stated that children identify as kittens and schools are putting litter boxes in bathrooms. This is completely false and has been debunked. I realize now this is an anti-LGBTQIA statement and an urban legend, which deeply hurts that community. But it also hurts school teachers and the original children this accusation was made about.

In order to make amends, I have posted the corrections to the original statement in the thread below, and will dedicate X amount to the Trevor Project specifically aimed towards education and Education initiatives to help teachers https://www.donorschoose.org/ in X amount.

I deeply apologize to the LGBTQIA community and teachers for the hurt I have caused.

If he insists on an appeal to God... then it should go something like this:

I have also disappointed my fellow Christians as we are taught to apologize properly and talk with love and understanding. I ask for forgiveness from God, but understand I do not always deserve it from the people I’ve hurt and in this case, school teachers, children, and the LGBTQIA community.

But this should not be in lieu of the former proper apology and making amends.

Note:

Shortest non-apology on the blog so far.

[howtoapologize]

Purdue Apology

Text version: An Apology from Purdue University Northwest Chancellor Thomas L. Keon

On Saturday, December 10, during one of our two PNW Commencement ceremonies, I made a comment that was offensive and insensitive. I am truly sorry for my unplanned, off the cuff response to another speaker as my words have caused confusion, pain and anger.

Purdue University Northwest, [sic] and I [sic] personally, take great pride in being welcoming and inclusive to all people. Earlier this fall I announced the formation of PRIDE Team initiative (PNW Respecting Inclusion and Diversity, and Equity) whose mission is to promote an open, respectful and welcoming culture. I am now directing this interdisciplinary team to specifically understand and address issues of importance to the Asian American Pacific Islander community at PNW, and to offer concrete ideas that our university will act upon to ensure our campuses are places that welcome and value all. In addition, I will meet with members of the Student Government Association to discuss how to be address student concerns.

Additionally, within the last year PNW welcomed our most diverse student body in history, opened a multicultural lounge to encourage the sharing of ideas from students of all backgrounds, [sic--should have formed a new sentence.] and formed a broad group of faculty and staff with expertise in various cultural backgrounds to coordinate celebrations of cultural heritage. These priorities illustrate our commitment to diversity, inclusion, [sic-inconsistent use of the Oxford comma] and equity, but clearly we need to do more and we will. [run-on sentence.]

We are human. I made a mistake , and I assure you I did not intend to be hurtful and my comments do not reflect my personal or our institutional values. In the true spirit of diversity and inclusion that is a cornerstone of PNW, I will learn from this and assure you that Purdue Northwest and I will take action to prevent such missteps from occurring in the future.

I rate this as a non-apology. On the non-apology scale it gets a 10--it even scored the badging, the hasty output without checking grammar and the “I am not that kind of person” on the non-apology scale. It also is hiding behind the institution rather than taking personal responsibility. Give that, let’s score it.

What sorry for? Getting caught? -1 point.

What did he do? “Keon issued the apology Wednesday after he was criticized for mocking Asian languages in an apparent impression, saying the made-up words were an “Asian version” of a previous speech, at the event for the school’s summer and fall graduates.”  https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/purdue-northwest-chancellor-apologizes-racist-asian-language-impressio-rcna61778

Accept full responsibility? Deflecting blame and non-apology. Don’t hide behind institutions when it was your mess up.

Offered amends? Half steps. +.5

Thanked them for pointing out the problem? No.

Apology score -4.5/10

Rewritten apology if he were to do is correctly:

An Apology from Purdue University Northwest Chancellor Thomas L. Keon

On Saturday, December 10, during one of our two PNW Commencement ceremonies, I made a comment about Asian languages that was offensive and brought hurt to our community. I am truly sorry to [insert name if safe or specific student address] and I offer my apology to the larger Asian American Community and Pacific Islander community.

These comments I made were made individually of the Purdue University Northwest institution. As such, I will take personal responsibility for my words and actions in order to be a role model.

As part of my responsibility as Chancellor of Purdue University Northwest, I vow to personally work with the Asian American and Pacific Islander community to understand their hurts about this and the history of such comments so I will not make this mistake again. I will be taking time off to do so. (Offering a specific amount of time would be good, say a week after winter vacation to sit with the student in question, and specific departments.) I thank you for showing me for a point I can improve myself.

A reminder that non apologies are always longer than real apologies.

[howtoapologize]

Bette Midler’s Apology to the trans community.

Context: Bette Midler originally said, “They don’t call us ‘women’ anymore; they call us ‘birthing people’ or ‘menstruators’, and even ‘people with vaginas’! Don’t let them erase you! Every human on earth owes you!” She got backlash from the trans community, so tried to issue an apology. This post is grading that apology. “It was about the same old s**t women – ALL WOMEN – have been putting up with since the cavemen. Even then, men got top billing. But seriously, folks, if anyone who read that tweet thinks I have anything but love for any marginalised people, go to Wikipedia and type in my name.

“I’ve fought for marginalised people for as long as I can remember. Still, if you want to dismiss my 60 years of proven love and concern over a tweet that accidentally angered the very people I have always supported and adored, so be it.

“But the truth is, Democracy is slipping through our fingers! I’m all in on trying to save Democracy for ALL PEOPLE. We must unite, because, in case you haven’t been paying attention, divided we will definitely fall.”

What sorry for? Unclear. Also unclear who the apology is to.

Accept full responsibility? Deflecting blame and non-apology.

Offered amends? No.

Thanked them for pointing out the problem? No.

Apology score 0/10 Rewritten apology if she were to do is correctly:

I recently wrote a hurtful tweet to the trans community and failed to acknowledge that the Roe v. Wade would also affect transmen and nonbinary people. I am very sorry for the hurt I caused, especially given my previous track record.

I was ignorant, though this is not an excuse.

I will be working with the Trevor Project to better understand gender ideologies and effects of Roe v. Wade on the trans community and be donating X amount to help with trans education.

BTW, this is a much shorter than her original. Non-apologies are always longer than an apology.

[howtoapologize]

Nick Fletcher MP, “Doctor Who Scandal”

Background: People started to make fun of this speech... https://twitter.com/AdamBienkov/status/1463886950704820232

The Original Speech is here...: https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2021-11-25/debates/FC4EEAA5-52F3-4655-A59B-FC2417721387/InternationalMen%E2%80%99SDay

This is the apology...

Nick Fletcher MP --Statement--25 November 2021 “I was pleased to speak at the International Men’s Day debate today, especially as it gave me a chance to raise several points that are often a little overlooked within political discourse. These points namely touched upon poor academic attainment of boys in schools and a lack of positive role models for many struggling males in society.

Naturally, as is often the case, my rather nuanced point that there are increasingly fewer positive male role models for young boys was almost immediately misconstrued. My point was, in fact, a straightforward one and in no way linked Dr Who being a female to crime being committed by men.

As alluded to earlier in my speech, teachers, parents and carers need to teach young men and boys that males can make a positive difference. Promoting this can be done through various means, including through films and programmes. Yet something often not discussed is that the only characters many boys with no good role models in their lives see on television and online are increasingly criminal.

For whatever reason, there appears to be a certain squeamishness when pointing out when a boy’s role models are all violent criminals (fictional or not), this negative influences how they view masculinity and what it means to be a man.

As has been alleged rather lazily by several individuals, I did not link a Dr Who being female to crime being committed by men. In fact, I was making a statement that boys and young men need positive role models within the media, just as women do.

Boys need positive role models, and that is a point I will continue to reiterate and never apologize for making[sic]” ENDS

Rating: 0. Non apology. Might give it a -5. Rewrite: I apologize to all women, Mark Hamill, black people and the LGBTQIA community for implying the following things:

Mark Hamill has turned into a woman.

That male toxicity is not problematic to both women and the LGBTQIA community.

That women playing traditionally male characters would lead boys and young men to crime.

That boys can’t look up to women as role models.

That a secret spy who wields around his masculinity and guns might not be the best role model. Idris Elba would make a great James Bond. I am sorry I implied he would not.

That Doctor Who is human.

That Ghostbusters are fighting real entities.

Forgetting all of the Marvel Cinematic universe.

That the problem isn’t austerity, poverty and docked welfare to help stem crime rates.

I realize there is a difference between intention and impact and my impact was wrong.

I will do better next time by asking that my speech be read over by women and LGBTQIA when pertaining to this subject, and do my best to become a better male role model to my community, rather than putting the onus on others. Thank you for taking the time to show me my errors.

[howtoapologize]

Choi Jin Hyuk’s Covid Apology

Background: https://www.soompi.com/article/1492435wpp/choi-jin-hyuk-halts-all-activities-steps-down-from-my-little-old-boy-after-violating-covid-19-regulations

Original Apology: G-Tree Creative’s apology for Choi Jin Hyuk: On October 6, Choi Jin Hyuk violated COVID-19 prevention regulations while meeting up with an acquaintance. Choi Jin Hyuk’s acquaintance took him to a bar that he said could stay open until 10 p.m., and Choi Jin Hyuk had no idea that the bar was open illegally. Therefore, he mistakenly thought that there would be no problem with staying there until 10 p.m.

He ended up at that place because his acquaintance recommended it while they were looking for a quiet place to talk,” continued the agency. “However, because it was a bar that was not allowed to be open under the current level of social distancing guidelines, he was caught for violating COVID-19 prevention regulations at about 8:20. He is truly ashamed of his ignorance and wrongdoing in not properly checking the COVID-19 prevention guidelines and not being more vigilant, and he is aware that there is no excuse for his behavior. With his head bowed, he apologizes.

He is reflecting deeply and will be mindful not to repeat this kind of mistake ever again in the future. As an agency, we will also always do everything we can to manage our celebrities.

1. Who are you apologizing to? (Name them if it is safe)

0 Not clear.

2. What are you apologizing for?

100% transparent. Full points, no excuses made.

He violated the covid regulations.

3. Why was it wrong?

Full points.

“He is truly ashamed of his ignorance and wrongdoing in not properly checking the COVID-19 prevention guidelines and not being more vigilant“

4. Accept full responsibility.

“and he is aware that there is no excuse for his behavior. With his head bowed, he apologizes.“

5. Commit to not doing it again.

Full points: “He is reflecting deeply and will be mindful not to repeat this kind of mistake ever again in the future.“

6. Offer amends. / What are you doing to correct your behavior for the future so you don’t do it again.

Could be better here. Withdrawing from shows isn’t really amends.

7. Thank them for pointing out your mistake. (Bonus points)

0 They didn’t really thank anyone, but this isn’t required.

I’m inclined to give 8/10. The agency did better than most at finding how to do an apology. It would be worth it though to give general groups of people he is sorry to. fanship, other actors/crew members, etc.

Slight points off for writing it for him, which isn’t as genuine. But I suppose all agencies do that, so leeway is given.

And the amends offered don’t seem to have anything to do with covid itself?

Rewritten apology: On October 6, Choi Jin Hyuk violated COVID-19 prevention regulations while meeting up with an acquaintance. Choi Jin Hyuk’s acquaintance took him to a bar that he said could stay open until 10 p.m., and Choi Jin Hyuk had no idea that the bar was open illegally. Therefore, he mistakenly thought that there would be no problem with staying there until 10 p.m.

He ended up at that place because his acquaintance recommended it while they were looking for a quiet place to talk,” continued the agency. “However, because it was a bar that was not allowed to be open under the current level of social distancing guidelines, he was caught for violating COVID-19 prevention regulations at about 8:20. He is truly ashamed of his ignorance and wrongdoing in not properly checking the COVID-19 prevention guidelines and not being more vigilant, and he is aware that there is no excuse for his behavior. With his head bowed, he apologizes [to the actors and crew members of the shows he’s working on for the extra work he has incurred.]

He is reflecting deeply and will be mindful not to repeat this kind of mistake ever again in the future. [He will work on awareness campaigns of the covid regulations.] As an agency, we will also always do everything we can to manage our celebrities.

The square brackets show loose suggestions. Those two things should tip it into 10/10 without centering. In this case it’s not centering to mention the cast and crew of his shows since they were affected by his lousy decision making. The only important thing to do, then to make it not centering is be specific:waste their time, effort, etc.

[howtoapologize]

NCT Lucas‘s Apology

NCT Lucas’s Apology. Background: https://www.soompi.com/article/1485476wpp/ncts-lucas-apologizes-for-past-behavior-involving-ex-girlfriends-sm-announces-he-will-halt-activities

The act is a bit more egregious than some on this list, since it was thought out and intentional.

This is Lucas.

I apologize to those who were hurt by my wrong behavior. If you give me a chance, I would like to personally convey my words of apology.

I also genuinely apologize to my fans who have given me lots of love and support.

While watching the situation during the past few days, I have looked back on my past behavior and sincerely reflected on it. Looking back on my behavior of the past, it was clearly wrong, and it was an irresponsible behavior that betrayed the support that my fans have shown me for a long time.

I would like to once again apologize to everyone who was disappointed by my actions.

I will make sure that something like this does not occur again, and I will halt all of my scheduled activities to take time to reflect on myself.

Lastly, I would like to apologize to the members, company staff, the many cooperative firms, and broadcasting personnel for causing an inconvenience.

I sincerely apologize.

Some of this has language that might be a translation error, but let’s break it down anyway. 1. What is he sorry for. .3 Too vague. If you’re being strict 0.

2. Missed the people he was supposed to apologize directly to. 0. He should be apologizing to the exes he exploited, not his fans.

3. Why was it wrong? 0

4. Unspecific on what occurred wrong and how he’d fix it. 0

5. Accept full responsibility? 0

6. Make reparations? 1? .5?

7. Inconsequential to the statement. Deductions: - Passive language: “I apologize to those who were hurt by my wrong behavior.”

Leeway for translation issues. Passive language (in English)  makes it look like they are taking no responsibility. If you’re strict -1. If it’s a translation issue no points deducted.

- Centering: “Lastly, I would like to apologize to the members, company staff, the many cooperative firms, and broadcasting personnel for causing an inconvenience.“ -1

”I also genuinely apologize to my fans who have given me lots of love and support.” Also centering.

SM PR team needs a bit more work. Similar mistakes were made in the company apology. This is worse.

Generous score: .3

Conservative score: -1.5 Since you can’t have a negative score, rounding to next available score 0.

Rewrite:

This is Lucas.

I am sorry to my ex-girlfriends who I was two-timing and dating at the same time while asking for gifts out of their budget and treating them like sugar mamas. I have also hurt my fans who trusted me to be a better person than this. [Was not safe to disclose the names of the women, so that’s fine.]

In the future, I promise to not date my fans to exploit them for outrageous gifts and be open about who I am dating if I am dating them. I accept full responsibility for my actions and have personally apologized to the girlfriends that have been mentioned. I know an apology might not be good enough to repair my actions in this case.

In addition, because I used my fame in order to get what I wanted from these women, I have decided to halt all of my scheduled activities and taken a pay leave. (I have also donated x amount of money to X woman’s organization at the suggestion of these women.)

I am truly sorry.

Summary:

It is clear, here, that SM has issues with writing apologies since the two run into the same issues. This apology doesn’t have substance and needs specificity, which is possible in Korean and Chinese. (More Mandarin than Korean)

Passive language is also an issue, but leeway.

The general rule is if you could apply the same apology to any situation, then, it’s not a real apology. This is scored a non-apology. Since it has a negative score, it’s a minor not-sorry-at-all-you-should-apologize instead. He compounds the issue by centering which was the problem in the first place.

[howtoapologize]

SM Entertainment apologizing about NCT’s Lucas.

Background: https://www.soompi.com/article/1485476wpp/ncts-lucas-apologizes-for-past-behavior-involving-ex-girlfriends-sm-announces-he-will-halt-activities

Hello. This is SM Entertainment.

We apologize for causing concern due to our artist Lucas’s personal life.

We recognized the seriousness of this matter and have decided to to halt the release of all content for WayV’s Lucas and Hendery’s single “Jalapeño,” including the song and music video that were scheduled to be released on August 25 at 6 p.m. KST.

Lucas is deeply reflecting on having caused great pain and disappointment due to his wrong behavior, and the agency also feels responsible for our poor management of the artist.

We once again deeply apologize for causing concern to many people including fans with Lucas’s personal matters.

1. Who are they apologizing to? 0

2. What are they apologizing about? our artist Lucas’s personal life. .3 too vague.

3. Why was it wrong? 0

4. What will they do better in the future: unclear. 0

5. Accept full responsibility: .5 “the agency also feels responsible for our poor management of the artist.“

6. Reparations: Yes. 1

7. Thank them for pointing out the mistake? 0

1.5/10 It’s lacking. Rewritten apology would look like:

Hello. This is SM Entertainment.

We, as a management company failed to guide Lucas on proper conduct of his romantic relationships and he took advantage of his fanship by asking for outrageous gifts the fans could not afford. There are two particular fans he was dating at the same time--we apologize to both. We also are sorry to his fanship who are feeling disappointed right now with our management of him.

We promise to try to guide our artists better in the future so they will not exploit the fanship by training them from day one on proper conduct. However, in this case, we accept full responsibility for Lucas’s misconduct.

We recognized the seriousness of this matter and have decided to to halt the release of all content for WayV’s Lucas and Hendery’s single “Jalapeño,” including the song and music video that were scheduled to be released on August 25 at 6 p.m. KST.

Thank you for bringing this problem to our attention.

We once again deeply apologize for causing concern to many people including fans with Lucas’s personal matters.

It’s still passing since reparations were offered, but it’s borderline.

[howtoapologize]

Julliard’s Pinchas Zukerman Apology

Background: https://thehill.com/blogs/blog-briefing-room/news/560729-violinist-apologizes-for-using-racial-stereotypes-in-juilliard

In Friday’s master class, I was trying to communicate something to these two incredibly talented young musicians, but the words I used were culturally insensitive.

I’m writing to the students personally to apologize. I am sorry that I made anyone uncomfortable. I cannot undo that, but I offer a sincere apology. I learned something valuable from this, and I will do better in the future.

1. Say what you are sorry for. “the words I used were culturally insensitive.“ .2 That’s not specific. 2. Say why it was wrong. -1 “I am sorry that I made anyone uncomfortable.” Non-apology words.

3. Sorry to whom? Couldn’t say their names (if it was safe and it was). .5

4. Accept full responsibility. .

5. Commit to not doing it again. “I learned something valuable from this, and I will do better in the future.” .5? ish, though negative points for self-centering. so more inclined to .3

6. Thank them for pointing out the mistake. 0

7. What you will do better in the future: 0 (Left Julliard to clean up his mess)

Generous score: .2

Conservative score: 0

[howtoapologize]

Zhang Zhe Han’s Apology

Background: Zhang Zhe Han went in 2018 to a wedding of a friend who is Japanese and Chinese. The shrine where the wedding was held, was anti-Chinese and enshrined generals who are accused of multiple war crimes against Chinese and Korean people. He was unaware of this and took pictures of the trip. (A whole bunch of pictures). Among them were a picture of a rising sun decal on a car (which is a Japanese war flag) and then pictures of the shrine and a shrine connected to the other shrine, which is famous for sakura trees. He took a picture of a sakura tree and got a picture of the spire of a temple. (Yes the spire.)

Here is his apology:

Today I am ashamed of my ignorant self, and I must apologize deeply for my previous misconduct.

I attended a wedding held by a friend in Japan. It was my fault for not learning more about the historical background of the wedding venue and the political background of other people attending the wedding banquet.

I used to take photos at will when traveling in various places. Due to my lack of knowledge of the local buildings and history, and the carelessness in the content of the pictures while I snapped photos, the photos that I took have seriously injured the feelings of the Chinese people, and I am also sincerely apologetic.

I am not pro-Japanese, I am Chinese! I have never made any remarks harmful to my motherland on any occasion! I deeply love my motherland! Everyone can criticize me for my ignorance. I am especially grateful to everyone for your supervision and criticism. As a public figure, I should always keep in mind the pain of our history. In the future, I will study history and culture more seriously so as to be more professional, rigorous and self-disciplined.

Once again, I solemnly apologize.

It’s borderline on the “I am not pro-Japanese, I am Chinese! I have never made any remarks harmful to my motherland on any occasion! I deeply love my motherland!” since it’s centering, but it took a while to write it, so people were accusing him of being pro-Japanese and making wild rumors while his PR team was handling it, so addressing those concerns is fair. But it’s passing marks and I’d give it 10/10 considering the circumstances. Apparently took a week to write. What is he sorry for? Indiscriminate picture taking and not researching the places he went before going to them. Why was it wrong? Because Chinese people were hurt by the war crimes of Japanese people. To whom is he sorry for? Chinese people, those hurt by Japanese imperialism and Japanese invasion and to his own Chineseness.

Did he accept full responsibility? Yes. “Everyone can criticize me for my ignorance. I am especially grateful to everyone for your supervision and criticism.”

Offered amends? Yes. Said he already stopped his indiscriminate picture-taking, but will also research better in the future before posting such pictures. Thanked them for pointing out the problem? Yes. Full marks. If I’m being harsh I’d give 9.8/10 for the iffy lines, but given circumstances, I’m inclined to give a 10.

[howtoapologize]

CVS apology to Hilde Hall

“We also apologize for not appropriately following up on Ms. Hall's original complaint to CVS, which was due to an unintentional oversight. We pride ourselves in addressing customer concerns in a timely manner and we are taking steps to prevent this isolated occurrence from happening again.” Almost perfect score. The “unintentional oversight” makes it a non apology. Should be replaced with, striking the whole clause and saying, “We will train our employees to not discriminate based on gender.” That’ll flow better with the last statement.

[howtoapologize]

CVS apologizes to black woman for calling police for “fake” Coupon

This is a proper apology. They stated who they were apologizing to, why it was wrong, and didn’t make any non apology backtracks and what they are going to do in terms of amends.: “We sincerely apologize to Ms. Hudson for her experience in one of our stores. Our Region Director in Chicago contacted her as soon as we were made aware of this incident.  CVS is actively investigating what happened and we will take any corrective action that is warranted based on the outcome of our investigation. The employees who were involved in the incident will not be working in the store pending the findings of our investigation. CVS Pharmacy does not tolerate any practices that discriminate against any customer and we are committed to maintaining a welcoming and diverse environment in our stores.  We have firm non-discrimination policies in place to help ensure that all customers are treated with respect and dignity. Profiling or any other type of discriminatory behavior is strictly prohibited.” Source: http://abc7chicago.com/cvs-apologies-after-chicago-manager-calls-police-on-black-woman-over-coupon/3769004/

[howtoapologize]

Permit Patty: Apology by Company

Original Story: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/permit-patty-alison-ettel-resigns-ceo-cannabis-company-video-calling-police-on-girl-selling-water/ Apology online: https://mjbizdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/TREATWELL-PRESS-RELEASE-copy.pdf

Text of apology:

“June 26, 2018 "For Immediate Release" "As a spokesperson for Treatwell Health, we are deeply sorry and regret the incident that occurred this past weekend. A terrible mistake was made that affected a young girl and her family. It is important to know it was never the intention to disparage, harass or cause any harm to the child, nor her Mother. However, in a heated moment, a critically wrong decision was made by our CEO. The guilt lies in that decision, and while it was completely wrong, the act that followed was not motivated by any racist intent whatsoever.

We are aware of the tumultuous tide of racism in this country and agree that its very existence has no place anywhere, especially in the Cannabis industry. Rather, we respect all family values, virtues and religious beliefs, lifestyles and we are supportive of all. And as a company we refute all notions of prejudice.

Our sole focus, as a company is to enrich, heal, and preserve the 1000’s of lives of those patients in need. We do not seek forgiveness for the act, rather we accept the fact that a very poor decision was made.We respect all people of color, race, creed, ethnic diversity and we are a zero tolerance, all - inclusive compliant business. We ask for your professional courtesy and allow Treatwell Health time to mitigate the damages, particularly for the sanctity and future Medical Cannabis needs of our patients."

"Alison Ettel, CEO of TreatWell Health, has resigned, effective immediately. This decision, while not an easy one, is in the best interest of their patients.It is Ms. Ettel’s belief that TreatWell, its employees, and patients should not have to suffer because of a situation that occurred in an escalated moment. And she regrets her part and is remorseful.

Alison has been an incredible asset in the development, marketing and overall success in bringing a highly regarded Medical Cannabis product to market. As a result, TreatWell has grown into a company that has far reaching important medical value and the work must continue. The founding principles in providing the highest - quality cannabis products and for the passion of patient care, has not changed. Ms. Ettel believes in TreatWell’s fundamental roots — that patients come first, and she respectfully wishes the company continued success in all its endeavors."

To see the Translation and correction look below:

Translation Version

Text of Translation: We always knew this about the bitch, but seriously, this is a good time to get rid of her. No regrets.                        She pretended to call the police so that she would fear for her life. We all know it was her intention to harass the child, but I gotta write this so our company doesn't get affected by what we already knew. She has non Trauma related noise intolerance and thought it was a good idea to put fear of God into a child. Of course we know it was racist, that's why I'm bringing it up.

Fuck, don't blame our company for this CEO's actions. We sell pot to dogs, don't you know? Can't we just say it was her fucked up racist mistake already and move on? Please, pretty please? Look, we cut her as you will find out later. She's making me write this garbled nonapology for ya'll. I'm sorry.

Fucking, remember, we sell pot to dogs. Let's focus on that. You know how good dogs feel on Pot--OK, maybe they shouldn't be watching TV while trying to catch a frisbee, but who does that anyway? Please, please forget this racist lady.

I already said this already up above, but just in case you really think we discriminate between chihuahuas and poodles, look, Treatwell Health wants to remind you we don't and we hate the racist bitch as much as you do. Remember, we are saving dogs here. DOGS. Think of the dogs. The cute fluffy dogs.

We finally got rid of the bitch, halleluah. This was one of the easiest decisions of our life.

She's making me write this crap at the end. *eyeroll* You know how long I've had to put up with her whining? She can't remember what occurred either. And no, it's not the pot.

She's making me say this shit too. I don't believe it for a second.

Our company is special, but even more so without her. C'mon, Internet, can we forget this whole thing ever happened? Please? I mean remember the dogs. How much would Fido feel better if he had our products. We voted her out of the company, so don't forget where to get your weed, your special Mary Jane when your doggy is feeling ill. I mean seriously, where else do you think you're going to get this stuff for dogs? Ignore her.

Correction Version:

We are sorry to hear that Alison Ettel, our CEO, pretended to call the police on a little black girl selling water in order to instill fear of death into her. This was a very racist action, however this is not the morals of our company, thus Alison Ettel was asked to resign and she accepted. We are dedicated to selling quality cannabis to dogs of any breed with owners of any race, ethnicity, religious creed, economic status, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, birth status, and so on. Her actions were not in the least acceptable and we are going to talk to the mother and daughter about this problem in person and see if there is anything we can do to make it up to the child, which includes a free years' pass to Disneyland.

We are sorry for the poor decisions of our CEO. It was never acceptable in any fashion and very racist.

[howtoapologize]

Aaron Schlossberg’s (Lawyer) Non Apology

Reference:

https://www.metro.us/news/local-news/new-york/aaron-schlossberg-twitter-apology-reactions The original text was not disability friendly. Here is the original:

To the people I insulted, I apologize. Seeing myself online opened my eyes -- the manner in which I expressed myself is unacceptable and is not the person I am. I see my words and actions hurt people, and for that I am deeply sorry. While people should be able to express themselves freely, they should do so calmly and respectfully. What the video did not convey is the real me. I am not racist. One of the reasons I moved to New York is precisely because of the remarkable diversity offered in this wonderful city. I love this country and this city, in part because of immigrants and the diversity of cultures immigrants bring to this country. Again, my sincerest apologies to anyone I hurt. Thank you. I translated it into what he really meant:

His real apology would go like this: To the Spanish speakers I insulted in the restaurant I attended, threatening you with ICE, I am sorry to you and the other Spanish speakers in America. My behavior was inexcusable no matter the tone that I took. I should not have assumed you were illegal immigrants for speaking spanish. America is made up of all different immigrants who speak different languages and they have a right to speak those languages as they please as we all live on stolen land. This is especially true in a diverse place like New York City. I will work from this day forward to understanding more Spanish and the comfort that these languages bring to the people who speak them.