CES Chief Exec Apologizes to Female Journo

Just hours after tecca.com senior editor Taylor Hatmaker posted her thoughts today regarding some controversial remarks made by Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) CEO Gary Shapiro in a BBC News report, Shapiro has piped up in her article comments.

In the BBC report by Matt Danzico, Hatmaker is one of several female journalists who voices her discomfort with the ongoing use of anachronistic, scantily clad “booth babes” on the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) convention floor. In her post today, she explains why she found the separate BBC report remarks by Shapiro (pictured) offensive, to which the CES exec has responded in the article comments. He writes:

I am sorry. I would welcome your input on how you think I should have responded or should do so in the future. My use of the word “cute” to the [BBC] journalist was aimed at his comment (deleted in the editing) about “booth babes” being part of the technology industry…

I have many weaknesses and am not perfect–but on certain issues I give my all and on the issues of women and gays and advancement and rights–frankly–I may be delusional, but I really think we are on the same team.

This is a great example of Internet-speed damage control. Shapiro’s apology seems sincere, as does his acknowledgement of Hatmaker’s point of view and welcoming of further guidance. Unless the person posting as Shapiro in the article comments is an imposter, FishbowlLA says CEO job well done.

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