Chris Hemsworth apologises for cultural appropriation for Native American costume

'I was stupidly unaware of the offence this may have caused'

Chris Hemsworth (Getty Images)

While some high profile figures will stoutly ignore accusations of cultural appropriation levelled against them and others will outright dismiss them, Chris Hemsworth has decided to tackle his head on.

Hemsworth, 33, expressed his solidarity with the thousands who are peacefully protesting the proposed Dakota Access Pipeline, which would run across sacred burial grounds and the main source of water for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.

His Instagram post then took a confessional turn when the Thor actor said he was “stupidly unaware” of the offence he could have caused by appropriating traditional Native American dress for a costume at a New Year’s Eve party in 2015.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to raise something that has been bothering me for sometime. Last New Year’s Eve I was at a ‘Lone Ranger’ themed party where some of us, myself included, wore the traditional dress of First Nations people. I was stupidly unaware of the offence this may have caused and the sensitivity around this issue.

“I sincerely and unreservedly apologise to all First Nations people for this thoughtless action. I now appreciate that there is a great need for a deeper understanding of the complex and extensive issues facing indigenous communities.

"I hope that in highlighting my own ignorance I can help in some small way.”