In a candid Instagram post, actress Ellie Kemper addressed her participation in a contentious debutante ball in Missouri from 1999, which has historical ties to racism. The star of The Office faced backlash last week when images emerged of her being crowned “Queen of Love and Beauty” at what is now known as the Veiled Prophet Ball.
The discussion ignited when a tweet pointed out the unsettling association of the ball with themes of white supremacy, echoing sentiments from True Detective season one. Founded in the late 1800s by Charles Slayback, a former Confederate officer, the Veiled Prophet Organization only allowed white participants until 1979. While some reports inaccurately claimed links to the KKK, Kemper clarified those claims as false.
Kemper’s Apology
In her apology, Kemper reflected, “When I was 19, I chose to take part in a debutante ball in my hometown. The organization behind the event has a deeply troubling past steeped in racism, sexism, and elitism. At the time, I was unaware, but ignorance is no excuse. I should have educated myself before participating.”
She continued, “I strongly reject white supremacy and recognize that, due to my privilege, I benefit from an unequal system.” Kemper acknowledged the temptation to dismiss criticism but recognized the validity of the concerns raised, stating, “I have spent my life supporting the values of kindness and inclusivity. If my past experience serves as a reminder that organizations with troubling histories should face accountability, I view it positively.”
Kemper expressed her regret to those she disappointed, vowing to educate herself further and utilize her privilege to foster a better society. “Thank you for reading this,” she concluded.
Broader Implications
Meanwhile, some have questioned the focus on Kemper rather than the broader implications of her family’s involvement in the organization. The Veiled Prophet Organization released a statement emphasizing its commitment to diversity and inclusion, rejecting any associations with racism.
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Summary: Ellie Kemper has publicly apologized for her participation in a controversial debutante ball in Missouri that has historical ties to racism. In her Instagram statement, she acknowledged her ignorance of the organization’s troubling past and expressed her commitment to fighting against white supremacy and promoting inclusivity. The Veiled Prophet Organization also asserted its dedication to diversity and condemned racism.