India, July 7 -- Cierra Ortega was removed from Love Island USA Season 7 after resurfaced social media posts revealed her past use of racist language, including an anti-Asian slur. In the wake of her exit, Cierra's parents have released a public statement addressing the situation and the growing backlash.

"As Cierra's parents, this has been one of the most painful weeks of our lives," the statement begins. "We've seen the posts, the headlines, the hurt and the hate. And while Cierra hasn't seen any of it yet, we have. And so have the people who love her."

The statement continued, "We're not here to justify or ignore what's surfaced. We understand why people are upset, and we know accountability matters. But what's happening online right...