The Apartheid State

How long can a politician go without offending a target population? John Kerry, U.S. Security of Defense has been under scrutiny for his comments calling Israel an apartheid state.

John Kerry, U.S. Secretary of Defense

Apartheid* is a form of social segregation that took place in South Africa. The rights of millions were stolen, and representation in politics lost for those in minority groups. Those of different races were not allowed to marry, coincide within the same neighborhood or have sexual relations.

Fortunately, the Apartheid state deceased after continual resistance from minority groups and the election of Nelson Mandela as the president of South Africa. For many years preceding Mandela’s election, the apartheid state was condemned by the west and other parts of the world.

John Kerry’s assertion of Israel an apartheid state has reached criticisms across the political spectrum. Kerry’s comment came after an unsuccessful week of peace talks with Israel and Palestine.

Young child in Israel faces of with tank as the conflict continues 

Like most political blunders, Kerry’s comment was taken out of context.
Politico.com reported the intentions behind the blunder to be nothing more than cautionary -- Kerry’s statement was intended to warn the world about a potential outcome if peace talks are not successful.  

The damage has been done regardless of context.

Kerry quickly went on the defense, explaining that his intentions were never to offend, and apologizing to all those offended.

"If I could rewind the tape, I would have chosen a different word." Kerry stated in his statement.

David Jarvis, Colorado State University student with a focus in Political Science found that the comments where not completely out of line.

“I think the term is correct because of the internal conflict...that has been happening in Israel ever since we declared it a country. So I’d say that fits the description pretty well.”

Jarvis found the term to be brass, yet still appropriate. In contrast, Gereon Fredrickson, Junior at Colorado State with an interest in politics found the comment out of line.

“Given the history of the apartheid state in South Africa, I found it extremely insensitive. Millions of people suffered for decades after decades, and to say that Israel is on the same track if they don’t do what Kerry wants or resolve disputes is out of line. Sometimes sorry just isn’t enough.” Said Fredrickson

Kerry and Israel Prime Minister continue peace talks.

What is a politician to do when ‘sorry’ doesn’t quit cover it? Lie low. As a public relations student I believe that the best approach for Kerry is to lay low at this point in time. He has issued statements apologizing to all those offended, as well as further explained his comment. At this point there is not much left for Kerry to do -- besides to continue to facilitate and resolve conflict between the two countries.

As with most things in politics, it will only be a matter of weeks before one of Kerry’s colleagues makes a statement more offensive than his.

*South Africa is no longer considered an Apartheid State after the election of Nelson Mandela.