H&M monkey scandal: Was the clothing retailer in the wrong?
International clothing retailer, H&M, is dodging bullets after an advert surfaced online of a children's hoodie which has caused a major controversy.
It shows a young black boy wearing a dark green hoodie with the words "coolest monkey in the jungle" printed on it.
Scores of South Africans, including some of the country's biggest celebrities as well as international musicians, have taken to social media to vent their outrage.
Ja nee. It's off. Terrible https://t.co/t6wS0tDVqH
— Zelda la Grange ©™✌ (@ZeldalaGrangeSA) January 9, 2018
We used to be slaves&now we are billionaires in the countries we were sold in. We did this with no help from the oppressor. Black people start at the bottom of the food chain and work their way up. Plus we do it with so much swag. WE ARE THE KINGS OF THE WORLD!!! #BlackExcellence pic.twitter.com/qb1KnRRZSh
— R.M Phoolo (@CassperNyovest) January 9, 2018
Famous singer, The Weeknd, who had launched a clothing line in association with H&M, was also exceptionally unhappy with the ad, tweeting:
woke up this morning shocked and embarrassed by this photo. i’m deeply offended and will not be working with @hm anymore... pic.twitter.com/P3023iYzAb
— The Weeknd (@theweeknd) January 8, 2018
The Swedish clothing giant, H&M, has since taken down the ad and issued a full apology.
— H&M (@hm) January 9, 2018
In a country like South Africa, where the wounds of apartheid are still raw and there remains vast inequalities, do you believe the advert was racist?
Let The Late Show's Carla Mackenzie know in the comments section below.