Ivey apologizes for racist skit in college

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Gov. Kay Ivey (file photo/WVTM-13)

Gov. Kay Ivey on Thursday issued an apology for a racist skit she took part in in 1967 while a student at Auburn University.

According to The Tribune’s media partner, WVTM-13 in Birmingham, Gov. Ivey said she was recently made aware of a taped interview she and then-fiance, Ben LaRavia, gave to the Auburn student radio station when she was SGA vice president.

Ivey on Thursday issued the following statement:

“I have now been made aware of a taped interview that my then-fiance, Ben LaRavia, and I gave to the Auburn student radio station back when I was SGA Vice President.

“Even after listening to the tape, I sincerely do not recall either the skit, which evidently occurred at a Baptist Student Union party, or the interview itself, both which occurred 52-years ago. Even though Ben is the one on tape remembering the skit – and I still don’t recall ever dressing up in overalls or in blackface – I will not deny what is the obvious.

“As such, I fully acknowledge – with genuine remorse – my participation in a skit like that back when I was a senior in college.

“While some may attempt to excuse this as acceptable behavior for a college student during the mid-1960s, that is not who I am today, and it is not what my Administration represents all these years later.

“I offer my heartfelt apologies for the pain and embarrassment this causes, and I will do all I can – going forward – to help show the nation that the Alabama of today is a far cry from the Alabama of the 1960s. We have come a long way, for sure, but we still have a long way to go.”

Alabama Republican Party Chairman Terry Lathan issued the following statement concerning Ivey:
 
“The Alabama Republican Party appreciates and supports Governor Kay Ivey taking ownership of and responsibility for this 50 plus year old incident. While it occurred when she was a college student, Governor Ivey has stood up, admitted her mistake and offered a sincere apology though she has no recollection of the event. Her extraordinary record of public service shows her ability to work with all people regardless of race, religion or party affiliation. We stand with Governor Ivey uniting our state for a greater future.”
 
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Wendy Sack

wendy@cullmantribune.com