We’re not sure who signed off on the latest tourism campaign for the Canadian town of Regina, but they’ve got some ‘splaining to do!
“Show us your Regina, the city that rhymes with fun.” Was unveiled as part of a push to get more visitors to the city.
But, the slogans creator has likely gone from feeling like a genius to an ass.
Not since ‘CU in the NT’ has there been a town slogan so controversial.
The backlash has been so intense, city tourism officials have apologised following numerous calls for them to resign.
“I want to start by apologising, on behalf of myself and our team, for the negative impact we created with elements of our recent brand launch,” Experience Regina CEO Tim Reid said at the weekend.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMKnDAmCmzA[/youtube]
The campaign was labelled “gross”, “misogynistic” and “steeped in masculine toxicity.” but residents of the city.
Regina is 160km from the United States border, but appears to be a good 80 years away from 2023.
The website, video and branded apparel such as hoodies disappeared pretty swiftly, after those behind the slogan got a reality check from members of the public, and users on Twitter.
You are probably thinking that this campaign couldn’t have gone any worse…
Well, you are wrong. I hope you are sitting down.
The campaign also called for people to show their Regina’s on social media using a hashtag.
That’s right. This actually happened.
