Bronx “Ghetto” Bus Tour Shut Down After Outrage
Earlier this week we told you about Real Bronx Tours, a bus tour that takes customers on a tour of the Bronx to learn what a “real ghetto” looks like.
Former patrons say the tour exploits and pokes fun at Bronx residents, lambasting the borough as a crime and poverty-infested nightmare.
After widespread outrage and a petition campaign, the Real Bronx Tour has been shut down.
On Monday, Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and City Councilwoman Melissa Mark-Viverito sent an open letter to the company owner, Michael Myers, saying they were “sickened by the despicable way” the borough was being portrayed to outsiders.
“We strongly urge you to stop profiting off of a tour that misrepresents the Bronx as a haven for poverty and crime, while mocking everything from our landmarks to the less fortunate members of our community who are availing themselves of food assistance programs.”
The tour company did not respond to calls and emails requesting comment. It was not clear whether they would resume any of their tours. And by Thursday, the website of the company was no longer accessible.
Other companies in the city still offer regular guided trips to the Bronx
Happy to hear that this offensive bus tour has been shut down?
Should the company be forced to explain themselves, and offer an apology to the community?
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