Kim Zolciak has offered a statement in regard to the ongoing backlash she’s faced due to a comment about “racism” she made during part three of The Real Housewives of Atlanta reunion on Sunday night.
After being slammed by fans on Twitter, many of whom have suggested her spinoff, Don’t Be Tardy, be cancelled by Bravo, Kim admitted that her comment has “confused and offended people.”
“I sincerely apologize,” Kim said in a statement posted to her Instagram page on April 26. “Edited out of context, I understand why my remark angered people. Racism is a sad reality in the United States. It has been prevalent throughout our country’s history. Let me be very clear, I do NOT support, tolerate or put up with any form of racism, hate or other discrimination. My love for ALL people runs deep — I am open to all and always have been.”
“I was heartbroken when I watched the last few minutes of the episode and saw how my words were taken out of context,” she continued. “My comment that seemingly ‘racism didn’t exist 10 years ago’ was made as part of a larger, emotional 45-minute conversation about how, sadly, social media has become a hub for hate. Immediately following my confusing comment, I also said that ‘it’s not as real as it is now,’ referring to the power of social media. But those remarks didn’t make the show.”
According to Kim, social media has intensified the “centuries-old issue” of racism.
“Before social media, the public simply observed the news. Now, the public actively participates and has an opportunity to take action — in real time,” she explained. “But this is a double edged sword. Now, when false accusations are made, they are amplified by online platforms regardless of their merit. This wasn’t the case 10 years ago when I started on RHOA.”
“I truly pray that the people wishing horrible things on others, and on me, channel that energy into something positive. Our world would be a much better place if you do. I am committed to making this world a better place to live. I will continue to learn from, and be open to, ALL people,” she added.
During Sunday’s show, Kim said that racism in this day and age “is bulls**t.”
“Everyone of those motherf**kers on that couch owe this world a f**king apology for this racism s**t,” she claimed. “They already tried to claim that s**t long ago. Nobody bought into it then because the social media wasn’t there and racism wasn’t f**king all that real.”
Kim quit her role on The Real Housewives of Atlanta earlier this month.
