Like Joseph Harker (Will Smith went low by slapping Chris Rock. In his attempt to justify it, he went even lower, 28 March), I’m wary of creating role models to inspire disadvantaged groups because, as he says, they are put on a pedestal only to be knocked down. True role models are often unassuming people like our parents, who lead by example, not celebrities. But the concept of inclusivity, as exemplified by the modern Oscars, is predicated on the assumption that successful people will inspire others who look like them. So if you play this game, you must be prepared to accept the sudden change of your hero Will Smith to zero. Better to create equal opportunity for all without patronising those who succeed.
Stan Labovitch
Windsor, Berkshire
• Tayo Bero’s argument that it is racist to disapprove of Will Smith’s slap is a gift to the right (White outrage about Will Smith’s slap is rooted in anti-Blackness. It’s inequality in plain sight, 29 March). Smith decided the appropriate response to an edgy joke in a hyper-public setting was to assault the jokester and swear at him. It’s not because I’m white that I think he’s out of order. Some things are about race – this isn’t.
Richard Dillane
Brighton, East Sussex
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