“We want to acknowledge some feedback received regarding our Juneteenth celebration,” Pezzuto said in his letter obtained by The North Carolina Beat. “Although our intent was to celebrate this nationally recognized day, some of you voiced your concerns regarding the associated food choices.”
In other words, we’re sorry you were offended.
It’d also likely not be seen as derogatory if it weren’t being served to them by their white corporate masters. I’m certain many black families enjoy these dishes to this day for juneteenth. However, some rich white people deciding to serve their workers that for a day celebrating the freeing of black Americans is a horrible look and there’s no way anyone assumes anything but stereotypes used to make fun of black people for decades.