Liverpool's International Slavery Museum has hit out after a nearby gift shop was found selling golliwog dolls.The dolls, banned in the 1980s for being offensive, are on display at novelty retailer Wizzard, situated only a few yards from the museum at the Albert Dock.
Calling for the dolls to be removed from sale, head of the International Slavery Museum, Richard Benjamin said, "These dolls reinforce out-of-date racial stereotypes which are deeply offensive to many people, particularly within the black community.
"That they are still on sale in a supposedly progressive city such as Liverpool, and on the doorstep of the International Slavery Museum, is shocking."
The shop has admitted to receiving complaints about the gollies but denies condoning racism by selling them.
The golly doll was originally a children's literary character created by Florence Upton in the late 19th century. Based on a black-faced minstrel doll, the golliwog was popular throughout most of the 20th century, featuring in books by Enid Blyton and appearing as the mascot for Robertson's jam.
However, the golliwog has become the subject of heated debate. Some argue that it should be considered a cherished cultural artifact and childhood tradition, while opponents argue that it is a relic of a time when racism against black people was blatant.
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