GiannieLee Finds Kind Person Amidst The Racism

Two years ago, Korean Twitch streamer GiannieLee was subject to some of the most overt, blatant racism in a video that went viral. While visiting Germany, countless people felt totally okay approaching GiannieLee and demonstrating their racism. 

Despite the horizontally stretched eyelids, “ching chong” mockery, or outwardly violent strikes in her direction – on camera – GiannieLee did more than most by reiterating comments like, “be nice,” “that’s racist,” and “I love German people.” 

An Apology On Behalf Of Others

It can’t be easy to keep going on with a good attitude after so many confident displays of racism. Yet, GiannieLee soldiered on and eventually ran into someone kind. 

“Very good girl. Welcome to Germany. I’m sorry about my German compatriots. I feel sorry. She’s very good, and come please to Germany.” 

The kind citizen, Philip, apologized to GiannieLee on behalf of the racism she experienced. She graciously accepted his apology and responded with a hug. 

Racism Fixed, Right?

Obviously not. The fact that those racists felt so confident displaying their racism on camera is egregious and offensive. That kind of behavior is abhorrent and unacceptable. GiannieLee should not have been subjected to that, nor should anyone. 

Some may excuse the bad actors as being intoxicated at the time. I’m not sure about the rest of you, but I’ve been intoxicated plenty and I’ve never felt the urge to walk up to a camera and begin making racist gestures. 

It’s certainly kind that Philip approached GiannieLee and apologized on behalf of his fellow citizens. Plenty more should do that. 

But where were the other people who witnessed that abhorrent behavior? I saw them on camera, how come they didn’t feel the need to step in? 

If we want to stop racism, we need to stop it as we see it. That means stepping in when it can feel uncomfortable. It’s worth it in the end.