Packers: Devin Funchess apologizes for using racist term in press conference

Green Bay Packers wideout Devin Funchess apologized for using racist terminology aimed at Asians in his press conference.

Asians and Asian-Americans have been the target of hate crimes and racist terminology for centuries, but lately there’s been an undeniable uptick in relation to myths and misconceptions about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Funchess didn’t help that perception over the weekend, as he used a racist term in his press conference.

The wide receiver, currently battling for the No. 2 slot opposite of Davante Adams, issued an apology on social media after being alerted of the public outcry.

"“I want to apologize for the disparaging remark I used tonight. It was not OK,” he wrote. “I have grown to develop deep personal and business relationships in the Asian community! I meant no harm, and those that know me know I have love and respect for all cultures and people. I will learn from this and continue to grow as a person. I’m forever sorry!”"

Green Bay Packers: Devin Funchess’ apology can only go so far

Mistakes do happen, but Funchess’ terminology — and fact that he so nonchalantly used it in a joking term — speaks to a greater societal disconnect between many Americans and the Asian community.

With the spike in hate crimes against Asian-Americans the last few years, the last thing we ought to be doing as a society is encourage this sort of behavior. Seeing this sort of lingo from a professional athlete sets a bad precedent not just for current Packers and NFL fans, but the next generation.

To make a difference in the Asian communities here in the United States, consider donating to organizations like Asian Americans for Equality, linked here.