Earlier this week, we reported that a Coca Cola ad that aired during the Super Bowl inspired a fierce racist and xenophobic backlash on Twitter, and criticism from conservative politicians and media figures. In an email statement Thursday morning, a company spokesperson said that “America is beautiful and Coca-Cola is for everyone,” and that “all those featured in the ad are Americans.”
The ad, which aired during the second quarter of Sunday’s Super Bowl XLVIII, featured a rousing rendition of “America the Beautiful,” sung in several different languages. It quickly inspired a globally-trending #BoycottCoke hashtag, and backlash from conservative pundits and politicians who essentially found the singing of the song in foreign languages to be un-American. Here’s the full statement from a Coca Cola spokesman, via email to Mediaite:
America is beautiful and Coca-Cola is for everyone. “It’s Beautiful” was created to celebrate Coke moments among all Americans who together enjoy ice cold, refreshing Coke. For centuries America has opened its arms to people of many countries who have helped to build this great nation. “It’s Beautiful” provides a snapshot of the real lives of Americans representing diverse ethnicities, religions, races and families, all found in the United States. All those featured in the ad are Americans and “America The Beautiful” was sung by bilingual American young women.
We believe “It’s Beautiful” is a great example of the magic that makes our country so special, and a powerful message that spreads optimism, promotes inclusion and celebrates humanity – values that are core to Coca-Cola.
There’s more information on the ad, including behind-the-scenes video, here.
