Cierra releases statement apologising for using an ethnic slur after Love Island USA removal
'I genuinely had no idea it was a slur'
Cierra has released a statement apologising for using an ethnic slur following her exit from the Love Island USA villa.
She admitted she feels “genuinely ashamed” of using the word and “doesn’t expect forgiveness overnight.”
Cierra wrote: “I do not, and have never, condoned racism or the repression of any cultural group in any form. I would never intentionally use any word, especially a slur, to tear down anyone’s culture or community.
“When I used that word, I didn’t fully understand what it meant or how much pain it carries.
“I learned how deeply wrong it was when I was called out for it in 2024, and as you can see in the screenshot I shared in my video, I was genuinely ashamed and wanted to do whatever I could in that moment to make sure I never made that careless mistake again.
“I know an apology means nothing without real accountability and change, and that’s what I’ve done my best to live up to since then and what I will continue to do.”
She continued: “While I had no ill intention, I fully understand that impact matters more than intent. I don’t expect forgiveness overnight.
“I just hope that in time I can show that I’m more than a mistake, a label, or a character on a highly edited reality show. I’m someone trying to spread love and light, even when I get it wrong, and I hope my actions from here speak louder than this mistake ever did.
“My experience in the villa was nothing short of magical. The memories I made and the people I met are ones I’ll cherish forever.
“While I’m heartbroken my journey had to be cut short, I understand that mistakes, especially ones like this, deserve consequences.
“Once again, to the Asian community, I am deeply sorry for my thoughtless mistake and the harm it caused.”
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