HealthCoronavirus

Actions

McDonald's Apologizes After Chinese Location Bans Black People

The company said the Guangzhou store's actions are "not representative of our inclusive values" and temporarily shut it down.
Posted

McDonald's has apologized after one its Chinese locations put up a sign banning black people from entering the store.

A video has circulated on social media showing a sign, reportedly at a McDonald's in Guangzhou, that says in part: "We've been informed that from now on black people are not allowed to enter the restaurant. For the sake of your health consciously notify the local police for medical isolation."

In a statement, the fast food chain said the sign is "not representative of our inclusive values."

It's been widely reported that African people in China have been subject to xenophobia amid the coronavirus pandemic. There have been allegations of discrimination, particularly in Guangzhou, which has one of China's largest African communities. 

McDonald's temporarily shut down the Guangzhou location and said it will "further educate managers and employees on our values, which includes serving all members of the communities in which we operate."