Sponsors ditch Flaunt magazine following Guantanamo Bay themed party
Flaunt Magazine has pulled the plug on plans to stage a Guantanamo Bay themed party at the Coachella music festival, California, but not before the withdrawal of several key sponsors; Smashbox and True Religion.
An invitation sent to guest’s depicted models with machine guns and bikini sporting hostages in blindfolds, sparking an immediate backlash from some recipients.
The politically incorrect bash boasted that guests would experience ‘pleasurable torture’ for some but the symbolism of the whole event proved too much for others.
Following the bailout of Smashbox and True Religion the magazine announced a volte face with a new, less controversial, theme but remained adamant that the party was in-line with its edgy nature.
In a statement the magazine said: “In its 15-year history, Flaunt has not shied away from controversy or provocation. We routinely cover topics of social and political contention. At our event, we intend to create an atmosphere of fun, and the spirit and theme were never intended to cause offense or harm.
“Guantanamo has been controversial from its inception, and that an unresolved human rights issue is again fetching headlines is, in our opinion, true to our aims as a publication. We value and respect the public’s concern and are taking action.”