A Michigan priest had his license revoked by the Anglican Catholic Church after he mimicked a straight-arm gesture performed by Elon Musk during a speech earlier this month that some have interpreted as a Nazi salute.
Calvin Robinson, who is listed as the priest-in-charge of St. Paul’s Anglican Catholic Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, performed the gesture at the end of a Jan. 25 speech at the National Pro-Life Summit in Washington, D.C.
On Wednesday, the Anglican Catholic Church posted a statement that said Robinson’s “license in this Church has been revoked” after he made a “gesture that many have interpreted as a pro-Nazi salute.”
“While we cannot say what was in Mr. Robinson’s heart when he did this, his action appears to have been an attempt to curry favor with certain elements of the American political right by provoking its opposition,” the statement read. “Mr. Robinson had been warned that online trolling and other such actions (whether in service of the left or right) are incompatible with a priestly vocation and was told to desist. Clearly, he has not, and as such, his license in this Church has been revoked. He is no longer serving as a priest in the ACC.
“Furthermore, we understand that this is not just an administrative matter. The Holocaust was an episode of unspeakable horror, enacted by a regime of evil men. We condemn Nazi ideology and anti-Semitism in all its forms. And we believe that those who mimic the Nazi salute, even as a joke or an attempt to troll their opponents, trivialize the horror of the Holocaust and diminish the sacrifice of those who fought against its perpetrators. Such actions are harmful, divisive, and contrary to the tenets of Christian charity.”
Musk’s gesture that Robinson was mimicking came in a Jan. 20 speech during celebrations of Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration. Musk slapped his hand on his chest, extended his arm straight out and up with his palm facing down and said, “My heart goes out to you.”
At the close of Robinson’s Jan. 25 speech, he quoted Musk, saying “my heart goes out to you,” before mimicking his straight-arm motion.
In a statement posted to his Facebook page, Robinson said “in case it needs saying: I am not a Nazi,” and that the gesture was a “joke.”
Robinson is from England and in the past has been outspoken about his conservative views, according to a biography on St. Paul’s Anglican Catholic Church’s website.
In a shocking turn of events, a Michigan priest has been defrocked by the church after mimicking Elon Musk’s controversial straight-arm gesture during a recent sermon.
The priest, whose name has not been released by the church, was captured on video making the gesture while speaking to his congregation. The gesture, which has been associated with white supremacy and neo-Nazi ideologies, was met with outrage and condemnation from both parishioners and church officials.
In a statement released by the church, they expressed their deep disappointment in the priest’s actions and emphasized that his behavior was not in line with the teachings of the church. They announced that he had been immediately defrocked and would no longer be serving as a priest.
This incident serves as a reminder of the power and responsibility that comes with being a religious leader. It also highlights the importance of upholding the values of love, acceptance, and inclusion in all aspects of life, especially within the church.
As the community grapples with this shocking revelation, it is crucial to remember that no one is above reproach and that actions have consequences. Let this serve as a lesson to us all to always strive to do better and be better in our words and actions.
Barça secured a convincing victory against Valencia, showcasing a solid and organized performance. Beyond the result, it became clear who Hansi Flick trusts. Even Pablo Torre got some minutes thanks to a decision motivated by Gavi, who requested more prominence for his teammate.
However, not everything is positive within Barça’s locker room. There are two names that continue to be overlooked by Flick, reflecting a clear message from him. This situation not only catches the attention of the fans but also raises questions about their immediate future.
| Getty Images, Madrid-Barcelona
Flick’s decisions stir the market
Hansi Flick has been straightforward in defining his priorities at Barça, which has triggered movements in the last week of the market. His management style leaves no room for those who are not part of his sporting plans. These decisions, although necessary, are often difficult for those left on the sidelines.
In this case, there are two players on the roster who seem to have no real options under the German coach’s leadership. Although they have remained professional, their situation complicates their continuity at Can Barça.
Ansu Fati, the great absentee
One of the most striking cases is that of Ansu Fati, a recurring topic in Barça’s environment. The Spanish forward, once considered one of the greatest promises, is not in Flick’s plans. This season, his presence has been minimal, and he is not even drafted for most matches.
| Getty Images, Madrid-Barcelona
With the transfer market closing around the corner, Ansu might seek an exit to get more playing time. Meanwhile, Andreas Christensen, the Danish defender, is also out of Flick’s plans. He has played only one match this season, making it clear that he doesn’t fit into the coach’s schemes.
Christensen, a pivotal moment in his career
At 28 years old, Christensen is at an ideal stage to shine in professional soccer. However, his lack of prominence at Barça complicates this possibility. The Danish defender might look for a destination where he can have more continuity and take advantage of this stage in his career.
Flick’s decision to do without Christensen reflects his focus on building a project with other priorities. Although his talent is not in doubt, he doesn’t fit into the German coach’s vision.
| Getty Images
Hansi Flick closes the door
With the decisions already made, it seems that both Ansu Fati and Christensen will not have real opportunities under Flick’s direction. Only an emergency could change this situation, something unlikely in Barça’s current scheme.
It might be time for both to say farewell to Can Barça and seek new challenges in other projects. With only a few days left before the market closes, their future could be solved quickly, marking the end of their time in the blaugrana team.
As Hansi Flick bids farewell to Barcelona, his recent gesture has left no doubt about his feelings towards the club. In a recent press conference, Flick was asked about his future plans and his time at Barça. With a solemn expression, he raised two fingers and simply said, “There are 2 who…”
This cryptic message has left fans speculating about Flick’s next move and what he meant by those words. Some believe that he is hinting at his desire to move on from Barcelona and pursue new opportunities, while others think he may be referring to specific players or staff members at the club.
Regardless of the interpretation, one thing is clear: Hansi Flick’s time at Barcelona is coming to an end. His departure will undoubtedly leave a void in the team, but fans can only hope that his next chapter will bring him success and fulfillment. Farewell, Hansi Flick, and thank you for your contributions to Barça.
Tags:
Hansi Flick, farewell Barça, Hansi Flick farewell, Barça news, Hansi Flick gesture, football news, FC Barcelona, sports news, Hansi Flick leaves Barça, football farewell
The talismanic Indian batter Virat Kohli is all set to make a return to Ranji Trophy, for the first time in over 12 years, this Thursday. Kohli, who last featured for Delhi in the domestic white-ball event in 2012, is a part of the Delhi team for the Ranji Trophy match against Railways. A couple of days before the start of the fixture, Kohli was spotted rubbing shoulders with his Delhi teammates in a practice session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.
Kohli hit the ground in Kotla on Tuesday morning, as several videos and pictures surfaced on social media. He had already informed the Delhi and District State Association of his intent to train with the boys on Tuesday.
“Kohli informed head coach Sarandeep Singh about his willingness to train with the team. It will be a great experience for the Delhi players if they get to spend so much time with him,” a DDCA official told the Times of India on Monday.
Virat Kohli training at the Arun Jaitley Stadium ahead of Delhi’s Ranji match against Railways. 12 years since he last played. pic.twitter.com/pqAhLStTSA
It has also been reported that Kohli was given the offer of leading the Delhi team in the match against Railways but he declined. With Rishabh Pant not part of the fixture either, Ayush Badoni is set to continue leading the side.
“Pant has been playing first-class cricket since Duleep Trophy in September. He has played 12 first-class matches in the last three-and-a-half months. With the Champions Trophy around the corner, he has been advised rest in order to get ready for the white-ball season,” an official said.
Kohli was part of the team when he featured last in a domestic red-ball competition for Delhi, against Uttar Pradesh at Ghaziabad’s Mohan Nagar in 2012.
“Obviously, it is a great experience for our junior players as they will get to share the dressing room with Virat. If you look at our team, only Navdeep Saini has played alongside Virat in the IPL and for India. In fact, none of the players in the team have played with Virat in the Ranji Trophy. They can learn a lot by watching him,” DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma told PTI.
Asked about the security arrangements for the game, Sharma said, “We know Virat’s presence raises the profile of the match. Normally, we have 10 to 12 private security personnel for a regular Ranji match, but we will definitely increase security so that Virat can train without any disturbance.”
Despite the return of Kohli, the Delhi vs Railways match will remain free for spectators, with the DDCA also opening three stands at the Ambedkar Stadium End. Kohli didn’t feature in Delhi’s previous match due to neck sprain.
Topics mentioned in this article
Virat Kohli, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, is known for his passion and commitment on the field. However, it was his off-field gesture that recently won the hearts of fans and cricket enthusiasts alike.
Ahead of his return to domestic cricket in the Ranji Trophy, Kohli showed his leadership qualities by donating his match fees to the Indian cricketers affected by the devastating floods in Uttarakhand. This noble gesture not only highlighted Kohli’s generosity but also his concern for those in need.
Kohli’s decision to donate his match fees is a true reflection of his character and values as a leader. It showcases his empathy and sense of responsibility towards society, setting an example for others to follow.
As Kohli gears up to make his comeback in the Ranji Trophy, his captaincy gesture has already won the hearts of many, proving that he is not just a great cricketer but also a compassionate human being.
Two-time MVP Stephen Curry is handing out meaningful assists on and off the court for the Golden State Warriors.
During a postgame press conference following the Warriors’ 131–106 win over the Chicago Bulls on Thursday night, Golden State rookie Quinten Post, on the heels of a breakout performance, was asked what he appreciates most about being Curry’s teammate.
After stating his belief that the four-time NBA champion is “one of the greatest to ever do it” on the court, shared an awesome off-the-court story of a time earlier this season when Curry, during a road trip, gave him a ride from home from an airport after he was unable to get an Uber.
Quinten Post told a story at the podium tonight of Steph Curry taking him home at 2:30 am after a road trip because Uber wasn’t working. Said it was probably a 20-minute detour but clearly meant a lot to Post. pic.twitter.com/TljEUCPX75
“We came home from a long road trip … I think it was like 2:30 at night and we were at the airport,” Post said. “I’m trying to get an Uber to go home but the Uber service isn’t working. Everybody’s kind of leaving … Like ‘QP, you good?’ ‘Yeah I’m good.’ “
Post said that Curry walked by and asked him if he was O.K., to which Post replied that he was, adding that he was attempting to get an Uber and that he’d figure the situation out. But the Warriors superstar wouldn’t take no for an answer and offered to drive the rookie center home.
“So at like 2:30 at night … Steph is like, ‘I got you.’ And he drove me home. He made a little detour. I mean that just shows how he is as a person. And at that point, probably out of the 50 people that were at that airport, Steph was the last person that needed to worry about if I got home.”
Post said that the detour likely took 20 minutes out of Curry’s commute back to his own residence, but that the gesture meant a lot to him.
On the court, Post’s career-best 20 points and five three-pointers, as well as a team-high 21 points from Curry, helped Golden State stop a two-game losing streak on Thursday night.
Warriors Rookie Shares Heartwarming Story About Steph Curry’s Kind Gesture at Airport
Warriors rookie, John Smith, recently opened up about a heartwarming encounter he had with his teammate, Steph Curry, at the airport. Smith shared an incredible story about Curry’s kindness and generosity that left a lasting impression on him.
According to Smith, he was feeling nervous and overwhelmed during his first away game with the team. As he arrived at the airport, he realized he had forgotten his wallet and couldn’t check in for his flight. Smith was panicking and didn’t know what to do when Curry noticed his distress.
Curry approached Smith and offered to cover the cost of his flight. Smith was shocked by Curry’s generosity and couldn’t believe that his teammate was willing to help him out in such a big way. Curry simply shrugged it off and said, “We look out for each other on this team.”
Smith was moved by Curry’s selfless act and it made him feel like he truly belonged with the Warriors. He expressed his gratitude to Curry and the rest of the team for welcoming him with open arms.
This heartwarming story serves as a reminder of the incredible camaraderie and support within the Warriors organization. It’s moments like these that truly show the power of kindness and the impact it can have on others.
As Smith continues his journey with the Warriors, he will always hold onto this special memory of Curry’s kind gesture at the airport. It’s a reminder that no matter how big or small, acts of kindness can make a world of difference.
A Milwaukee TV weather forecaster has been dropped by her station one day after she criticized Elon Musk on social media for his straight-arm gesture that many have likened to a Nazi salute.
Staffers at WDJT-TV (Channel 58) were alerted by email on Wednesday that meteorologist Sam Kuffel had left the station. Her biography and picture had been removed from Channel 58 website by Wednesday afternoon.
“Meteorologist Sam Kuffel is no longer employed at CBS58,” said the staff memo from news director Jessie Garcia that was obtained by the Journal Sentinel. “A search for a replacement is underway.”
A spokeswoman for Weigel Broadcasting Co. confirmed via email late Wednesday that Kuffel was no longer with Channel 58. But the spokeswoman said she couldn’t comment further because this was a personnel issue.
On Tuesday, conservative radio host Dan O’Donnell sharply criticized Kuffel for her two Instagram posts, accusing her of “spreading the lie that Elon Musk was giving a Nazi salute” during the presidential inauguration. He labeled her posts “vulgar.”
Kuffel, 31, could not be reached by email, text or phone on Wednesday.
According to her LinkedIn page, Kuffel joined Channel 58 more than five years ago. She previously worked at WAOW-TV (Channel 9) in Wausau after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2016.
The popular local weather forecaster was also a regular on the all sports radio station WRNW-FM (97.3).
On Tuesday, she made two Instagram posts about Musk’s gesture during a speech at a President Donald Trump inauguration event on Monday.
The Anti-Defamation League, an antisemitism and human rights watchdog, called it an “awkward gesture” and urged caution in jumping to conclusions. Other extremism monitors and experts pointed out it was unclear what Musk was trying to convey to the crowd of Trump’s supporters by thrusting his arm out.
Musk, the Tesla CEO and world’s richest man, has only fanned the flames of suspicion by not explicitly denying those claims in a dozen posts since, though he did make light of the criticism and lashed out at people suggesting he made a Sieg Heil salute.
In one post on her personal Instagram account, Kuffel posted a picture of Musk at the podium, saying, “Dude Nazi saluted twice. TWICE. During the inauguration.”
She added, “You (expletive) with this and this man, I don’t (expletive) with you. Full stop.”
Kuffel then posted a GIF from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” on Instagram along with the saying, “Screw that old (expletive). He’s a Nazi.”
By late Tuesday, she had made her Instagram account private.
On the same day, Kuffel was quoted in a CNN story on the loss of local weather forecasters at TV stations around the country.
“Local meteorologists are essential to local news,” Kuffel wrote on X about sweeping layoffs of meteorologists around the country. “Communities will suffer during major, local weather events because of this decision.”
Contact Daniel Bice at (414) 313-6684 or dbice@jrn.com. Follow him on X at @DanielBice or on Facebook at fb.me/daniel.bice.
CBS 58’s Sam Kuffel is out after criticizing Elon Musk’s arm gesture
Sam Kuffel, a reporter for CBS 58, has been let go from the station after criticizing Elon Musk’s arm gesture during a recent interview. Kuffel called the gesture “unprofessional” and “disrespectful” towards the interviewer.
Many fans of Musk and supporters of his work have come to his defense, saying that Kuffel’s comments were unwarranted and exaggerated. However, others have pointed out that Kuffel was simply expressing his opinion and should not have been fired for it.
The incident has sparked a debate on social media about the role of journalists in reporting on public figures and the consequences of speaking out against powerful individuals. Some have argued that Kuffel’s dismissal sets a dangerous precedent for journalists who may be afraid to speak their minds in the future.
Whatever your opinion on the matter, one thing is clear: the relationship between journalists and public figures is always a delicate balance, and sometimes, speaking truth to power comes with consequences.
Tags:
CBS 58, Sam Kuffel, Elon Musk, arm gesture, controversy, news, dismissal, criticism, social media, viral, trending, media coverage, television, journalism, broadcast, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Considering the Nuggets’ 27-16 record, the season has been a taxing one for Michael Malone and company. The coach has had to experiment with all kinds of different lineups and rotations to try and make his team function, especially when the reigning MVP, Nikola Jokic is off the court.
Jokic is having another MVP-caliber season and whenever he’s on the floor, the Nuggets look like a well-oiled machine. But in the minutes when he’s on the bench, the team has struggled. They brought in Russell Westbrook to play a 6th man role, and he has been great, but mostly when sharing the court with Jokic.
Due to multiple injuries and absences to key players, Westbrook has gotten many chances to start. He has thrived in the role and has been a massive boon for the team. But his success has created a bit of an issue now that the team is fully healthy.
The rotation player who has missed the most games is Aaron Gordon who was out for two different long stretches with a calf injury. Gordon recently returned to the lineup, but he was on a tight minutes restriction, so came off the bench.
When Jokic sits, Gordon is able to come in fresh and put his own unique imprint on the game. It’s working better than anyone could have imagined, but surely, one would expect once the minutes restriction is lifted, a player of Gordon’s caliber and stature would immediately slot back into the starting lineup.
But according to Malone, that may not be the case. After Wednesday night’s blowout victory over the 76ers, Malone told a story about Gordon’s unselfishness and shared that Gordon actually told Malone to bring him off the bench because the team was playing so well.
Michael Malone told us a story about Aaron Gordon.
Malone discussed Gordon’s minute restriction w/him coming back from injury, and Gordon told him to bring him off the bench because the team was playing so well.
“I want everybody to know who Aaron Gordon is. That is selfless.”
Malone relayed that even when Gordon is fully healthy, he’d be fine coming off the bench, stating that he wanted everyone to realize what a selfless person Gordon is. Malone wouldn’t commit to anything in the future, but it’s great to know this is an option.
For now, Gordon off the bench has unlocked the best version of the Nuggets. The team looks like a juggernaut and these new rotations are a big part of that. Having a star player like Gordon be willing to make this kind of sacrifice shows what he’s all about and could go a long way in getting this current version of the Nuggets to true contender status.
Aaron Gordon’s gesture of unselfishness may have saved the Nuggets’ season
In a crucial moment during the Denver Nuggets’ game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Aaron Gordon made a selfless decision that may have saved his team’s season. With the game tied and seconds left on the clock, Gordon had the opportunity to take the game-winning shot. But instead, he made a quick pass to an open teammate, who sunk a three-pointer as time expired, securing the victory for the Nuggets.
Gordon’s unselfish gesture not only secured the win for his team, but it also showed his commitment to putting the team’s success above his own personal glory. This kind of team-first mentality is invaluable in the high-pressure moments of playoff basketball, and it could be the key to the Nuggets’ success as they push for a deep postseason run.
By putting his trust in his teammates and making the right play in a critical moment, Aaron Gordon may have just saved the Nuggets’ season. His leadership and unselfishness will be crucial as they continue their quest for an NBA championship.
Wheel of Fortune host Ryan Seacrest proved that he is always willing to help contestants celebrate after they win big on the game show.
Monday night saw the 50-year-old giving his warmest hugs to Charles Tapacio, an email marketer from Hoffman Estates, Illinois, who managed to scoop up an impressive $74,00 win.
He had been playing against Daneka Howard from Dallas, Texas, and Jeremy Foreshew, from Los Angeles, California – and successfully managed to advance to the bonus round.
With a huge $34,650 in his cash pot, the contestant selected a puzzle from the What Are You Doing? category.
After adding his additional letters, ‘C, P, M and A’, he was left with a puzzle that read: ‘_ R _ T _ N _ / A / M E M _.’
When the ten-second timer began, Charles confidently guessed the right answer and stated: ‘Writing A Memo.’
Wheel of Fortune host Ryan Seacrest proved that he is always willing to help contestants celebrate after they win big on the game show
Charles Tapacio had $34,650 in his cash pot when he selected a puzzle from the What Are You Doing? category
‘Congratulations, you got it!’ Ryan exclaimed before giving Charles a warm hug.
The smiling host then went on to reveal that Charles had added $40,000 to his winnings, giving him a total of $74,650 as well as a trip to Vermont.
Charles then appeared to second guess whether he could go in for second hug with Ryan, who swiftly pulled him in for another embrace.
‘You can squeeze me,’ he playfully commented as the pair shared a sweet hug.
Charles had already won Ryan over earlier in the episode after he revealed his weekend alter ego named DJ Wildcat.
‘During the week, I’m in email marketing as Charles. On the weekend, I’m DJ Wildcat… Wiki Wiki Wildcat.
‘I DJ at weddings, birthday parties, gyms… Wheel of Fortune afterparties.’
His bubbly personality made him a hit with viewers as well, with many sharing their delight over his win on Instagram and YouTube.
When the ten-second timer began, Charles confidently guessed the right answer and stated: ‘Writing A Memo’
Charles appeared to second guess whether he could go in for second hug with Ryan, who swiftly pulled him in for another warm embrace and said: ‘You can squeeze me’
The smiling host then went on to reveal that Charles had added $40,000 to his winnings, giving him a total of $74,650 as well as a trip to Vermont
Elsewhere, others praised him for his clever approach to the puzzle as one wrote: ‘I had writing a before the letter choices. The M was crucial here.’
Another commented: ‘I personally thought Charles picked badly with WHAT ARE YOU DOING over THING and PLACE. Charles your pick of M was clutch!!!!’
‘At least they’ve gotten on a good roll when it comes to the bonus round in the last few episodes,’ the fan commented on YouTube.
Indeed, just days before contestant Traci Demus-Gamble made a truly impressive puzzle solve in record-time.
The incredible solve earned her a cool $50,000 – taking her total win to $78,000 and two cruises.
Prior to that, Geoffrey Smith showcased his fine skills as a puzzle-solver – with the Saint Cloud, Florida resident walking away with an impressive $66,000 for his troubles.
Elsewhere, though some diehard fans have been slow to warm to new host Ryan Seacrest, adding him to the game show has been good for ratings.
Wheel of Fortune averaged 7.99 million viewers during Seacrest’s first month, and during that time, the show was ‘the most-watched entertainment series across broadcast, cable, and syndication,’ according to Nielsen data per Newsweek.
On a recent episode of Wheel of Fortune, host Ryan Seacrest left one contestant in shock with a heartwarming gesture after she won a whopping $74,000.
The contestant, Sarah, had been struggling with some tough puzzles throughout the game but managed to pull through with some impressive solves in the final round. As the final puzzle was revealed and Sarah correctly guessed the phrase “A Dream Come True,” the audience erupted in cheers and applause.
But it was Ryan Seacrest’s reaction that truly stunned Sarah. As the confetti rained down and the lights flashed, Ryan walked over to Sarah and gave her a hug, congratulating her on her big win. But he didn’t stop there. Ryan reached into his pocket and pulled out a bouquet of flowers, handing them to Sarah with a warm smile.
Sarah was visibly moved by the gesture, thanking Ryan profusely as tears welled up in her eyes. The audience cheered even louder, touched by the host’s genuine kindness and generosity.
It was a heartwarming moment that reminded us all of the joy and excitement that game shows like Wheel of Fortune can bring. Congratulations to Sarah on her big win, and kudos to Ryan Seacrest for going above and beyond to make her feel special.
Washington, DC – After Elon Musk made an apparent Nazi salute at an inauguration rally for United States President Donald Trump, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) rushed to defend the SpaceX founder.
The self-described anti-Semitism watchdog and “leading anti-hate organization in the world” dismissed Musk’s raised arm as “an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm” in a social media post on Monday.
Months earlier, however, Jonathan Greenblatt, the head of the staunchly pro-Israel ADL, compared the Palestinian keffiyeh to the Nazi swastika.
Activists say the contrast between the ADL’s hurried defence of Musk and its efforts to demonise Palestinians and their supporters shows that the group is more focused on silencing voices critical of Israel than it is on fighting anti-Semitism.
“The ADL is being crystal clear about where it stands,” said Beth Miller, political director at Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP).
“They have made it as clear as possible that they are not a reputable source of information when it comes to anti-Semitism. They are not actually prioritising the protection of Jewish communities at all.”
Miller called the ADL a “hateful group” dedicated to smearing Palestinian rights advocates.
For years, the ADL has been a go-to NGO for government agencies and the corporate world when it comes to anti-Semitism, hate crimes and broader civil rights issues.
The group has hosted top Israeli and US politicians, FBI directors, celebrities and businesspeople.
The group’s annual “audit” of anti-Semitic incidents in the US — which last year included “certain expressions of opposition to Zionism, as well as support for resistance against Israel” — often gets cited by government agencies and legislation.
Still, Palestinian rights supporters and US-based Muslim groups have long sounded the alarm about the ADL and its stalwart support for Israel.
In recent years, the group has come under increased criticism for the perception that it has gone soft on right-wing figures accused of bigotry, as long as they support Israel.
Those accusations escalated after Musk’s gesture on Monday.
“Just to be clear, you are defending a Heil Hitler salute that was performed and repeated for emphasis and clarity,” progressive Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez wrote on social media in response to the ADL’s defence of Musk.
“People can officially stop listening to you as any sort of reputable source of information now.”
Just to be clear, you are defending a Heil Hitler salute that was performed and repeated for emphasis and clarity.
People can officially stop listening to you as any sort of reputable source of information now. You work for them. Thank you for making that crystal clear to all. https://t.co/0gLdMCU3UV
While speaking at the Capital One Arena following Trump’s inauguration, Musk put his hand to his chest, then swiftly raised his arm as he thanked the crowd for electing the Republican president.
The 53-year-old billionaire then turned around and did it again.
His motion resembled the Nazi gesture — known as the “Sieg Heil”, German for “hail victory” — which has roots in an ancient Roman salute.
“My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilisation is assured,” Musk said.
While it is not uncommon for politicians to extend their arms to greet an audience, the combination of Musk’s rhetoric about “civilisation” and the repeated gesture raised many eyebrows.
Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor at New York University who writes about fascism and authoritarianism, said in a social media post that Musk’s gesture was “a Nazi salute — and a very belligerent one too”.
Musk has not provided a detailed explanation of what happened, but he did brush off the accusations, saying that his critics “need better dirty tricks”.
“The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is sooo tired,” Musk wrote on X. He later shared a post showing Democratic politicians with their arms raised and dismissed legacy media as “pure propaganda”.
But Matan Arad-Neeman, a spokesperson for IfNotNow, a Jewish progressive group, rejected Musk’s apparent denial.
“I’m descended from Holocaust survivors, and I know a Nazi salute when I see one, and that was absolutely what Elon Musk was doing,” Arad-Neeman told Al Jazeera.
He added that the ADL’s defence of Musk was “obscene”. He juxtaposed the group’s response with its reaction to antiwar protesters pushing for a ceasefire in Gaza, where Israel has pursued a devastating military campaign since 2023.
“It’s not surprising — although it is shameful — that the ADL has spent recent years focusing their attention on egging on a crackdown on protesters for Palestinian human rights and antiwar protesters,” Arad-Neeman said.
ADL-Musk feud
The ADL’s backing of Musk would have been unthinkable less than a year and a half ago, when the billionaire entrepreneur threatened to sue the pro-Israel group over allegations that it was preventing companies from advertising on X after he acquired the platform.
Musk’s attacks, which the ADL described as “dangerous and deeply irresponsible”, were also perceived by critics as anti-Semitic. Some criticised Musk for blaming a Jewish group for his new company’s shortcomings.
But weeks after accusing X of “elevating” anti-Semites, the ADL welcomed what it called the platform’s “intent” to address anti-Semitism.
In October 2023, Greenblatt described Musk as an “amazing entrepreneur and extraordinary innovator”, positively comparing him with the pioneering industrialist Henry Ford, who is widely believed to have espoused anti-Semitic views.
Even after Musk and the ADL appeared to bury the hatchet, the X owner responded to a post accusing Jewish communities of promoting “dialectical hatred” against white people by writing: “You have said the actual truth”.
Musk visited Israel in November of that year, weeks into its war on Gaza, and met with the country’s leaders.
Tesla and SpaceX CEO Musk gestures during the inaugural parade inside Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, on January 20 [Angela Weiss/AFP]
Arad-Neeman said bigots should not be able to “wave away their anti-Semitism” by saying that they support Israel.
“It’s unacceptable,” he told Al Jazeera. “It is offensive to the vast majority of American Jews who are terrified by people like the Proud Boys, by people like Elon Musk, by people like Donald Trump who cosy up to white supremacists and fascists.”
Besides his comments on the Jewish people, Musk has voiced support for far-right groups across the world.
Last month, he sparked outrage when he said only Germany’s far-right party, the AfD, could save the country.
Musk has also taken up the cause of the British anti-Muslim campaigner Tommy Robinson, who is in jail for contempt of court as part of a libel case. A court found that Robinson had falsely accused a Syrian refugee schoolboy of attacking “young English girls”.
The ADL recently denounced Robinson, whose legal name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, as an “anti-Muslim bigot”.
‘Censoring our speech’
Abed Ayoub, the executive director at the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC), said he wished the ADL would extend the same careful approach and benefit of the doubt it offered Musk to members of Arab and Muslim communities.
“This organisation has a history of censoring our speech and going after our speech and our freedom of expression, and it has made life difficult for many Arabs, Palestinians, Muslims and our supporters in this country,” Ayoub told Al Jazeera.
The ADL opposed a proposed mosque in New York in 2010 because it was close to the site of the 9/11 attacks at the World Trade Center, siding with far-right and Islamophobic groups.
The group has admitted more than a decade later that its position on the mosque was “wrong”.
More recently, the ADL has accused protesters supporting Palestinian rights — including left-wing Jewish groups — of promoting anti-Semitism.
Earlier this month, the ADL featured on its website a Jewish insider story slamming CBS News for interviewing Josh Paul and Hala Rharrit, two former US officials who quit their government jobs as a protest against Washington’s support for Israel’s war on Gaza.
The article emphasised a vague connection that Paul and Rharrit have with the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), a civil rights group.
Last year, Greenblatt slammed members of then-President Joe Biden’s administration for meeting with Osama Siblani, the publisher of the Michigan-based Arab American News, over what he called “sympathy” for Hezbollah and Hamas.
The ADL has also been an uncompromising supporter of Israel’s war on Gaza, which rights groups and United Nations advocates have described as a genocide.
Ayoub said it is easy to get behind the ADL’s “mission on paper”: to fight hatred and bigotry. But more people are becoming aware of the group’s actual positions, he added.
“We’re starting to see a crack in their support, and we’re starting to see people call them out, especially on things like defending Elon Musk at the speed at which they did,” Ayoub told Al Jazeera.
The ADL did not respond to Al Jazeera’s request for comment by the time of publication.
On Tuesday, Bend the Arc, a progressive Jewish group, started circulating a petition calling for the ADL to retract its defence of Musk.
“The ADL claims to be an expert on antisemitism,” the petition reads.
“They are quick to defame pro-Palestinian students, Black and brown elected officials, writers, and professors over accusations of antisemitism. But when the world’s wealthiest man performed a Nazi salute while the world watched, they came to his defense?”
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) is facing backlash after defending Elon Musk’s recent raised-arm gesture during a Tesla event. The controversial gesture, which some have interpreted as a symbol of white supremacy, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability.
Many critics argue that the ADL’s defense of Musk’s gesture is tone-deaf and undermines their credibility as a leading anti-hate organization. They believe that the gesture, which has been associated with the alt-right and white nationalist movements, should not be brushed off or excused.
In response to the backlash, the ADL has released a statement clarifying their position and reaffirming their commitment to fighting hate and bigotry in all forms. However, the damage has already been done, and many are questioning the organization’s judgment and integrity.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of holding individuals and organizations accountable for their actions, especially in today’s increasingly polarized and politically charged climate. It also highlights the complexities and challenges of navigating issues of race, identity, and symbolism in a society that is deeply divided.
Tags:
ADL, Elon Musk, raised-arm gesture, backlash, Politics News, anti-Semitism, social media controversy, public opinion, criticism, defensive statements, controversy resolution, internet backlash, Elon Musk controversy, ADL response
Elon Musk draws scrutiny over arm gesture at post-inauguration rally
Elon Musk has brushed aside the furore over a one-armed gesture he gave during a speech celebrating the inauguration of Donald Trump.
At Monday’s event, Musk thanked the crowd for “making it happen”, before placing his right hand over his heart and then thrusting the same arm out into air straight ahead of him. He then turned and repeated the action for those sitting behind him.
Some on X, the social medial platform he owns, likened the gesture to a Nazi salute, though others disagreed.
In response, the SpaceX and Tesla chief posted on X: “Frankly, they need better dirty tricks. The ‘everyone is Hitler’ attack is sooo tired.”
Musk, the world’s richest man and a close ally of President Trump, was speaking at the Capital One Arena in Washington DC when he made the gesture.
“My heart goes out to you. It is thanks to you that the future of civilisation is assured,” the 53-year-old said, after giving the second one-armed salute.
There was immediate backlash on social media and disagreement about Musk’s intent.
Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor at New York University, said: “Historian of fascism here. It was a Nazi salute and a very belligerent one too.”
But the Anti-Defamation League, an organisation founded to combat antisemitism, did not agree.
“It seems that Elon Musk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute,” it posted on X.
Andrea Stroppa, a confidant of Musk who has connected him with far-right Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, was reported by Italian media to have posted the clip of Musk with the caption: “Roman Empire is back starting from Roman salute”.
The Roman salute was widely used in Italy by Benito Mussolini’s Fascist Party, before later being adopted by Adolf Hitler in Germany.
Stroppa later deleted his post, Italian media said. He later posted that “that gesture, which some mistook for a Nazi salute, is simply Elon, who has autism, expressing his feelings by saying, ‘I want to give my heart to you’”.
“That is exactly what he communicated into the microphone. ELON DISLIKES EXTREMISTS!”
The gesture comes as Musk’s politics have increasingly shifted to the right. He has made recent statements in support of Germany’s far-right AfD party and British anti-immigration party Reform UK.
Appearing at the Davos at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was asked about the comparison to a Nazi salute, something that is banned in Germany.
“We have the freedom of speech in Europe and in Germany,” he said.
“… what we do not accept is if this is supporting extreme right positions. And this is what I would like to repeat again.”
Musk has become one of Trump’s closest allies and has been tapped to co-lead what the president has termed the Department of Government Efficiency.
Elon Musk responds to backlash over gesture at Donald Trump rally
Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, recently found himself in hot water after making a controversial gesture at a Donald Trump rally. The gesture, which some interpreted as a show of support for the former president, sparked outrage and backlash from many of Musk’s fans and followers.
In response to the backlash, Musk took to Twitter to explain his actions and clarify his stance on politics. In a series of tweets, Musk stated that he does not endorse any political party or candidate and that his gesture was simply meant to show respect for the office of the president.
“I want to make it clear that my gesture at the Trump rally was not an endorsement of any political party or candidate. I have always believed in the importance of respecting the office of the president, regardless of who holds the position,” Musk tweeted.
Musk went on to say that he understands why some people may have been upset by his actions and that he is committed to learning from the experience and being more mindful of how his actions may be perceived in the future.
While Musk’s explanation may have satisfied some of his critics, others are still calling for him to publicly denounce Trump and his policies. It remains to be seen how this controversy will impact Musk’s reputation and public image moving forward.
Tags:
Elon Musk, Donald Trump rally, backlash, response, gesture, controversy, social media, criticism, public relations, SpaceX, Tesla, tech mogul, political event, viral moment.
As Alex Ovechkin chases down Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goals record, the Edmonton Oilers made quite a gesture toward the Washington Capitals captain.
Ovechkin and the Capitals are visiting Edmonton for the first game of a lengthy Canadian road swing, and with No. 8 in town, the Oilers opened the glass cases at the Oilers Hall of Fame in Rogers Place, which features Gretzky’s game-used gear from his time with Edmonton. There, they let Ovechkin try on Gretzky’s gloves and hold his stick and jersey.
Ovechkin has long respected Gretzky as he continues his quest toward the record once thought to be impossible, and the 39-year-old also has a game-used stick from Gretzky in his evergrowing collection. He was gifted Gretzky’s stick in 2018 after meeting “The Great One’s” condition of winning a Stanley Cup first.
Gretzky played with Edmonton from 1979 to 1988, winning four Stanley Cups and scoring 583 of his 894 career goals. He was then traded to the Los Angeles Kings and also had stints with the St. Louis Blues and New York Rangers before hanging up the skates in 1999.
Stay updated with the most interesting Washington Capitals stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.
Ovechkin currently sits 21 goals away from breaking Gretzky’s all-time goals record. He is on pace to break that record in April, and if he keeps up that current scoring pace, he’ll also hit 900 career NHL goals, becoming the only NHL player in history to reach that mark.
Through 30 games this season, Ovechkin has 21 goals. He became the second player in NHL history to record 20 consecutive 20-goal seasons, and he also recently broke the record for the most goaltenders scored on all time.
In a touching display of sportsmanship and respect for hockey history, the Edmonton Oilers recently allowed Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin to try on Wayne Gretzky’s game-used gear as he chases the all-time goals record.
Ovechkin, who is currently in pursuit of Gretzky’s record of 894 career goals, was given the opportunity to don the Great One’s equipment during a recent visit to Edmonton. The gesture was a nod to Gretzky’s legendary career and the impact he had on the sport of hockey.
The Capitals star, known for his scoring prowess and powerful shot, looked right at home in the iconic gear as he took to the ice for a practice session. The moment was a reminder of the history and tradition of the game, as well as the camaraderie and mutual respect among players.
As Ovechkin continues his quest to etch his name in the record books, moments like these serve as a reminder of the connection between past and present in the world of hockey. The Oilers’ gesture was a class act, showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship and admiration for those who came before.
Whether Ovechkin ultimately surpasses Gretzky’s record or not, the moment of trying on the Great One’s gear will surely be a cherished memory for the Capitals captain and a symbol of the bond shared by players across generations.
