Anna Wintour apologises for 'intolerant' mistakes at Vogue

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Jun 12, 2020

Anna Wintour is the latest public figure to apologise for race-related mistakes and her own role in creating a culture that lacks diversity during her 32-year tenure at Vogue. 

The editor-in-chief, and Condé Nast’s artistic director and global content adviser, said in an internal email to employees on June 4, that the publication "has not found enough ways to elevate and give space to Black editors, writers, photographers, designers and other creators.”

“We have made mistakes too, publishing images or stories that have been hurtful or intolerant. I take full responsibility for those mistakes," Wintour continued, adding that there are "too few" Black employees at Vogue.

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“I know that it is not enough to say we will do better, but we will – and please know that I value your voices and responses as we move forward. I am listening and would like to hear your feedback and your advice if you would like to share either.”

Wintour is one of many media figures to speak up about racism following nationwide protests over systemic racism and police brutality, and the killing last month of George Floyd. 

In fact, Refinery29 co-founder and editor-in-chief Christene Barberich announced her exit from the company earlier this week, after claims of a toxic company culture mounted. 

Refinery29 was also forced to release a statement on the company Instagram. In the comments, the statement was widely panned. 

Likewise, Adam Rapoport, former editor in chief Condé Nast’s Bon Appétit magazine, was forced to resign after old photos of him in brownface surfaced online. 

Meanwhile, Samira Nasr on Wednesday was named the first editor-in-chief of color in the 153-year history of U.S. Harper’s Bazaar.

The unprecedented outpouring of support for the movement that is being dubbed the "new civil rights movement” continues to be both criticized and praised.