Emancipation Producer Apologizes for ‘Whipped Peter’ Picture Controversy

“Emancipation” producer Joey McFarland has apologized after dealing with criticism for bringing {a photograph} of an enslaved man often known as “Whipped Peter,” which served as an inspiration for the movie, to the Los Angeles premiere.

“I wholeheartedly apologize to everybody I’ve offended by bringing {a photograph} of Peter to the ‘Emancipation’ premiere,” McFarland wrote in an announcement on his Instagram posted Sunday afternoon. “My intent was to honor this outstanding man and to remind most people that his picture not solely caused change in 1863 however nonetheless resonates and promotes change right now.”

His assertion continues: “After uncovering Peter’s origin story with assist from diligent historians, I spent the previous few years working with the ‘Emancipation’ artistic staff to be able to carry his story to life so worldwide audiences would have a chance to understand his heroism. I hope my actions didn’t distract from the movie’s message, Peter’s story and simply how a lot influence he had on the world.

“All through the analysis and growth of ‘Emancipation,’ I found pictures of missed and traditionally necessary people whose tales additionally wanted to be informed. One {photograph}, of Martin Delaney, is on mortgage to the Nationwide Portrait Gallery and at the moment on exhibit. My plan was at all times to donate the pictures to the suitable establishment, in session with the group, and I consider there isn’t a higher time to start that course of than now.

“These pictures, which existed earlier than me, can be round lengthy after I’m gone; they belong to the world. My aim has at all times been to search out the fitting everlasting dwelling and ensure they’re accessible, to honor their significance. And most significantly, that the people depicted within the pictures are remembered and their tales are informed with the best dignity and respect.”

Learn McFarland’s assertion under.

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