Publisher insists controversial textbooks 'promote racial harmony'
Company behind primary school series featuring ethnic minorities in stereotypical jobs dismisses claims it was discriminating
The publisher of a series of controversial textbooks that has caused an international outcry for its stereotypical view of different racial groups has hit back, claiming its books promote "racial harmony".
The textbooks, aimed at primary schools, have been heavily criticised for teaching children to differentiate people from different ethnic backgrounds by their skin colour, physical features and jobs. In particular, a picture of a cartoon figure with darker skin saying "I am a Filipino. I am a domestic helper in Hong Kong" angered minority rights groups.
Publisher Educational Publishing House said in a statement yesterday that the English-language textbooks' theme was "racial harmony" and that the editors hoped offering examples relevant to the pupils' lives would help press the message home.
"The example in the textbook is not intended to denounce Filipinos," the publisher said. "No job is superior or inferior to another. If anyone suspects the textbook is discriminating against Filipinos, it would only be the individual's personal view."
But Cynthia Abdon-Tellez, general manager of the Mission for Migrant Workers, said stereotyping was a form of discrimination and that the textbook would promote the idea that "if you are white, you are rich".
"They'd better be careful in giving examples [in the books], because it's influencing the minds of the young," she said. "I hope they don't just defend themselves but try to rethink and review, taking into consideration other people's opinions."
Controversy over the books has been featured in international media including Al Jazeera, Huffington Post and website since local blogger Tom Grundy first reported on them.
