BBC receives more than 18,600 complaints over racial slur in news report
BBC has received 18,600 complaints over the use of a racial slur in a recent TV news report.
The Points West and the BBC News Channel broadcast, which aired on Wednesday July 29, revealed that a Bristolian NHS worker and musician known as K or K-Dogg had been hit by a car a week prior. The 21-year-old suffered a broken leg, cheekbone and nose.
Police determined the incident as deliberate, due to the racist language used by the vehicle's occupants. Four men have since been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.
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While detailing the attack, the newsreader used the N-word on air, which prompted many viewers to criticise the broadcaster. With Ofcom confirming that it received 384 complaints over the same issue, the report has become the second-most complained about incident since the BBC implemented a new system in 2017.
Newsnight's opening monologue about Dominic Cummings caused 23,674 complaints back in May.
The BBC has since defended the use of the N-word, arguing that the victim's family asked that the extent of his wounds and the verbal abuse be relayed "in full."
"These are difficult judgements but the context is very important in this particular case. We believe we gave adequate warnings that upsetting images and language would be used and we will continue to pursue this story," it explained in a statement.
"The word is highly offensive and we completely accept and understand why people have been upset by its use. The decision to use the word was not taken lightly and without considerable detailed thought: we were aware that it would cause offence."
For more information on how you can support Black Lives Matter, please visit its official website or donate here. Readers can also donate to the UK anti-discrimination group Stand Up To Racism, and the Unite Families & Friends Campaign, which supports those affected by deaths in police, prison and psychiatric custody.
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