NZ Bank in Free Speech Row over 'Explicit' Sheep Memes
6 Articles
6 Articles
New Zealand's state-owned bank, Kiwibank, has been embroiled in a debate over freedom of expression after it attempted to remove from social media several "explicit" memes related to its mascot, a sheep named Buck. The bank introduced the character earlier this year as part of an advertising campaign urging consumers to choose a local bank, reports Telegraph. But the green-haired sheep quickly caught the attention of internet users, who began po…
NZ bank in free speech row over 'explicit' sheep memes
Kiwibank unveiled the mascot "Buck" this year in an ad campaign urging consumers to "bank Kiwi". But the cute sheep with green wool quickly drew some unwanted attention online, with viral posts on X alluding to Buck's good looks -- and uncharitable references to stereotypes about New Zealanders. The state-owned bank responded by sending takedown requests, removing the image of Buck in the offending posts and leaving only the phrase: "this media …
After trying to deal with online "indecent" memes with their sheep mascot, a bank in New Zealand is exposed to censorship charges. Kiwibank introduced its new mascot "Buck" as a new advertising sympathy carrier in the summer. However, the cute sheep with corny wool quickly became the target of unwanted attention on the Internet. Zotige allusions on "Bucks" attractive exteriors made the rounds.
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