Selma Blair in Los Angeles on Oct. 15, 2022.Photo:Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty
Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty
Selma Blairis apologizing “with love and respect” for an Islamophobic comment she says she “mistakenly and inadvertently” made.
In anInstagramstatement Tuesday, the actress wrote, “This is a time of great pain and anguish for many around the world, but it is also a time to learn and better understand how words matter."
According toEntertainment Weekly, that original comment from Blair, which has since been deleted, read: “Deport all these terrorist supporting goons. Islam has destroyed Muslim countries and then they come here and destroy minds. They know they are liars. Twisted justifications. May they meet their fate.”
On Feb. 10, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)“condemned” Blair’s now-deleted commentas “anti-Muslim.”
Blair said in her Tuesday apology, “In my comment, I mistakenly and inadvertently conflated Muslims with Radical Islamists and fundamentalists, a terrible err in my words, and resulted in hurting countless people I never meant to, and I deeply regret this.”
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TheCruel Intentionsstar, who grew up in a Jewish family, went on to say she “deleted the comment” immediately, “as soon as my error was brought to my attention.”
Blair wrote that she “respect[s] and love[s] all peace-loving communities, all over the world,” explaining of her experience, “It was my Muslim friends who helped educate and show me the way.”
Selma Blair in New York City on Not. 7, 2023.Gregory Pace/Shutterstock
Gregory Pace/Shutterstock
TheLegally Blondeactress also said she is “committed to paying forward their love and understanding.”
“We cannot allow ignorance and rage to becomes our downfall,” Blair wrote. “I raise my hand in humility and volunteer to break the chain. Those who know me, know that wherever I go, I try to create branches to hold onto, bridges to meet on for all marginalized communities. I am dedicated to tolerance and peace for all who want it — not hate.”
“I apologize to those in the Muslim community who I offended with my words. I apologize to my friends. And I apologize to anyone I hurt. And I will do better,” she continued. Blair concluded, “With appreciation, love and respect. Selma.”
source: people.com
