Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Shouldn't Government Representatives be able to promote their beliefs and causes?


A cake was baked into the shape of a African woman on Wednesday as Lena (minister) cut into it. Makode Linde is the artist who designed the cake and is from African descent. This cake was aimed at making a point and creating awareness about practice of female genital mutilation. The artist was the “head” of the cake and screamed as it was being cut into. People say that it was uncomfortable and wrong for a government rep. to be doing. The artist says,” I didn't intend for anyone to feel singled out or embarrassed," he said. "But we're talking about female genital mutilation -- is there any comfortable or cozy way to talk about it?" Lena has a meeting with the National Association for Afro-Swedes and the group will be planning her step down and giving up her title. The minister says the cake was designed as a statement against racism. Critics say otherwise.

“The Actual Inter of the piece- And MAkode Linde’s artistry- is to challenge the traditional image of racism, abuse, and oppression through provocation. It is perfectly obvious that my role as a minister differs from that of the artists. Provocation cannot and should not be an expression for those who have the trust and responsibility of Government representative.”
                -Lena Adelsohn Liljer, Culture Minister 

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