Systemic Racism isn't always in our face and obvious. It's often the things that will likely never make the headlines on national or even local news. It can take the form of things on store shelves that subtlety reinforce negative racial stereotypes. While there's been some coverage over Aunt Jemima, Uncle Ben's and Cream of Wheat recently there are many brands out there using outdated and racist names and imagery. 

Ah-So Sauce is right in that group. The branding and name MUST GO!

While I am not looking to condemn Allied Old English as racist the name involves negative imagery of Asians. 

The sauce is often used for American Chinese dishes but and while it’s great to celebrate the food of all cultures wouldn’t it be great to do it without a name that uses mock-Chinese which can be derisive? Heck, the name is more associated with Japanese than Chinese anyway: 

“The expression "ah so" comes from Japanese ā sō desu ka? ("oh, is that so?"), which starts with an entirely coincidental similarity to the English "ah so".”

As my friend Bartholomew Jae put it, “You have no idea how many times I heard ‘ah-so’ in the most racist ways possible growing up. Every time I see your label in the grocery store, it is a trigger for me. Hope someone at your company is listening.”

I would love to let Allied Old English know that BJ’s feelings are not an isolated thing and that there is a strong base of those who would love to see the name change. We can love the sauce but hate the name. 

Please consider signing this petition so we can send the message that cultural awareness and humanity will be rewarded as companies continue to look to rebrand products and that currently have a hurtful brand. 

Thank you.