The Disney star, with over 7 million Instagram followers, sparked anger after being spotted touching a “serene” resting sea turtle during a tropical Hawaiian holiday.
Actress China An McClain, known for her roles in several Disney shows, including the “Ant Farm” series, walks down the beach on the north side of Maui, Hawaii, before climbing up to a sleeping turtle and munching gently on a video shared online.
At least six turtles were sleeping on the sand, according to the clip.
“We just found this turtle gem @mynameissisi filmed on our Hawaii trip,” McClain captioned her ever deleted Instagram video. “I've found many other photos from this beautiful healing place I might share. Don't be shocked when you pack your bags and move to Maui!”
The video has since accumulated over half a million opinions and thousands of comments, and many people have asked to hold her accountable for her cultural insensitiveness.
It wasn't long before Hawaii Governor Josh Green joined the discourse.
“Aloha China, we recommend that you educate yourself on Hawaiian law and the importance of protecting marine life before visiting our island,” Green wrote in her comments section. “Please delete this video and do it better.”
Wildlife viewing guidelines set by the NOAA, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Hawaiian Bureau of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) encourage people to “be at least 10 feet away” and “not touch” sea turtles.
According to DLNR, Touching a turtle means that “it doesn't necessarily mean that you break the law” unless law enforcement determines that a person has done harm to the turtle or acted to change its behavior.
According to DLNR, 26-year-old McClain and his sister Sierra have apologised for the ordeal, claiming it took place two years ago.
“I had not fully aware of this situation until today, and I certainly wasn't aware of the law.” McClain told DLNR.
“That's the people I don't want to hurt,” McClain continued. “I understand that I respect culture and I understand the pain that comes with not respecting your culture. These are not lines we intentionally cross, so some of this situation is hurting us now. I adore these beautiful turtles and Hawaiian people. Sorry.”
McClain then deleted the video, but did not stop the social media backlash.
“They will fine her just like everyone else,” a social media user commented. “She should not receive any special treatment.”
“Some people don't have the common sense to not be exposed to wildlife wherever they are on Earth,” writes another.
