Coffee, Tea… Racism?

So in a previous entry entitled “Coffee, Tea… Jelly?”, I praised the drink “Kickapoo Joy Juice” as having the greatest drink name ever.

However recently I’ve done a bit of research into the history of the product and unfortunately, I’ve learned a few things.

“Kickapoo Joy Juice” was created as a result of the popularity of the “L’il Abner” comic series, which took place in the American south in a fictitious hillbilly community. One of the characters often made “Kickapoo Joy Juice” which – like “Mountain Dew” – is another word for moonshine.

But here’s the thing… “Kickapoo” is actually the name of a Native American tribe, whom are very alive and active today.

And the name “Kickapoo Joy Juice” came about when settlers started trading with the different tribes, and one product that was in strong demand was, unfortunately, moonshine.

Now we all know the horrible effect alcohol has had within the Native communities of North America. And back in the 1950’s when the drink was first released, it may not have seemed like a big deal, but given the shit-sandwiches the Aboriginal peoples continue to be served today by our government, etc., continuing to sell a drink named after a significant social problem, doesn’t seem quite right, does it?

In fact, it seems pretty insensitive to me.

I mean, you wouldn’t buy a laundry detergent called “Apar-Tide” would you?

“Apar-Tide… keeping your whites white and your colours, separate.”

So I hereby retract the title of “Best Drink Name Ever”, because frankly, I think in this day and age, it just ain’t cool.

I mean, if you like your carbonated beverages with a hint of racism, then drink up!

But if you’re like me, and you prefer soda pop without aspartame, hatred and bigotry, then stick with Coca-Cola.

At least its history only involves cocaine… and where’s the harm in that?