I read an article by Red Head Writing, How To Gracefully Deal With Haters. Apparently, the owner of Saddleback bags has a lot of companies ripping off his bags. His response is a snarky video to show people how to rip off his bags. Making fun of Mexicans and depicting Mexicans in poor working conditions.
Initially, I thought it was kind of a smart way to respond. I took a look at the bags and admired the quality and even considered buying my husband and myself a bag. However, after watching the video I was really offended by how he treated his employees and his statements that make fun of Domestic Violence at 11:20. The photo above is the expression on his face when he is making the following remark:
“Knocking off this bag will be easier than beating your wife and kids, especially if you have a large family.”
I was born in Mexico and lived there for 10 years and still maintain my dual citizenship. I still have many family members who live and work in Mexico. The video is very clever. However, it misses the mark with these statements. I am also concerned that Erika Napoletano a strategist & columist is backing this video as it makes fun of domestic violence & Mexicans. This video is not a graceful depiction of how to deal with haters. It is the complete opposite. If you are a social media strategist, please don’t ever encourage your clients to make a similar video.
I’m also concerned with what Dave Munson said as well. Especially since he lived in Mexico! The video could have been done without the statements at 11:20 and without depicting Mexicans in poor working conditions.
I went to Ericka’s Facebook page and Saddleback’s You Tube page to address my concern with no response from Saddleback. Erika told me to take a look at the comments from others because according to viewers, I missed the mark. Then she followed up her statement advising that maybe the brand isn’t for me. She is correct, A brand that makes fun of domestic violence and takes jabs at Mexican culture is not for me. In fact, it’s not for anyone.
Today, I’m writing a quick post to bring attention to this video and ask my fellow Latina and Latino Bloggers, Influencers and readers to take a look at the video and give me your honest opinion.
Additional Posts Referencing This Issue*
*Read the comments
Saddleback How To Knock Off a Bag video Mexican Stereotypes“
Question: Is this video offensive? Are you also offended by the statements at 11:20?