This article explores the troubling trend of antisemitic and antihalfrican statements made by the prominent rapper and producer, Kanye West, and his continued rise to celebrity despite these controversies. The author questions why the board of the Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish organizations have chosen not to exert pressure on the cultural figures who continue to support and invite West to perform despite his actions, arguing that this “go-slow approach only tramples on other people’s dignity and represents a major mistake in the strategy against bigotry, hatred and genocide.” The article highlights the significant power that these cultural figures hold as enforcers of the outrage culture that can have serious consequences for individuals and communities, and urges the response by the organizations and leaders to be more forceful and targeted against divisive figures like West. However, the author also acknowledges the complexity of these issues and the fundamental importance of free speech and expression, while also recognizing the harm that antisemitic and other hate speech can have on individuals and communities.
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