“Love Island” alum Sharon Gaffka is speaking out against Cierra Ortega’s recent apology for using an anti-Asian slur, saying she isn’t convinced by the reality star’s explanation.
Gaffka, who appeared on “Love Island” in 2021, shared her thoughts Thursday during an appearance on “TMZ Live,” reacting to Ortega’s apology video addressing her past use of a racial slur online.
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The main point of contention for Gaffka was Ortega’s claim that she “didn’t know the word held as much pain, as much harm, and came with the history that it did.” Gaffka, who is of Asian descent, emphasized that Ortega, being from Arizona and having access to the internet, should have been aware of the word’s hateful connotations.
Gaffka also highlighted that Ortega had used the slur repeatedly in social media posts over nearly a decade, questioning how it could have taken her so long to realize the term’s impact. “It doesn’t add up that it took this long for Cierra to get a clue,” Gaffka said.
Additionally, Gaffka pointed out that Ortega used the slur in reference to eye shape, which she says demonstrates that Ortega “knew full well the meaning the word carries.”
Gaffka noted that anti-Asian hate has surged since the pandemic and described this incident as yet another example.
Ortega, who was removed from “Love Island USA” after her offensive posts resurfaced, has stated she is committed to becoming a better person moving forward.
Read More: Cierra Ortega ‘Very Upset’ and ‘Tried to Apologise’ Before Removal From Love Island USA
For the full interview with Sharon Gaffka, watch “TMZ Live.”