A recent interview with Janet Jackson has sparked controversy after the singer made comments about Vice President Kamala Harris’s ethnicity. The topic was discussed on The View, where co-host Ana Navarro strongly criticized Jackson’s statement that Harris is “not black.”
According to an interview with the Guardian, Jackson was asked about the possibility of America having its first black female president. She responded by saying that Harris doesn’t fit that description, claiming she is “Indian” instead. When the reporter corrected her, explaining that Harris’s parents are Indian and Jamaican, Jackson insisted that Harris’s father is white.
Navarro called Jackson’s comments “irresponsible” and accused her of spreading misinformation. She pointed out that similar claims were previously made by Donald Trump, who attempted to question Harris’s racial identity. Navarro emphasized the importance of being mindful of the information shared on public platforms, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like race.
Sunny Hostin, who identifies as multiracial, weighed in on the conversation, stating that individuals who are biracial or multiracial have the right to identify themselves in any way they choose. She expressed disappointment that Jackson, a respected icon, would make such a statement without being informed.
Whoopi Goldberg, on the other hand, came to Jackson’s defense, acknowledging that she has also made mistakes in the past. Goldberg noted that Jackson is not typically involved in politics and is currently grieving the loss of her brother, Tito Jackson, a founding member of the Jackson 5.