The Holocaust Museum LA has faced intense backlash after deleting an Instagram post that advocated for the phrase “never again” to apply universally, beyond just the Jewish community.
The post read, “Never again can’t only mean never again for Jews.” This message was part of a campaign to promote inclusivity and community, but it was perceived by some as a political statement regarding the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict.
Following criticism, the museum removed the post and issued a statement clarifying that it was not their intent to make a political statement about the Middle East situation.
“We recently posted an item on social media that was part of a pre-planned campaign intended to promote inclusivity and community that was easily open to misinterpretation by some to be a political statement reflecting the ongoing situation in the Middle East.
That was not our intent,” the museum stated. They also promised to “do better” and ensure future posts are more thoughtfully designed and thoroughly vetted.
Many activists and commentators have criticized the museum’s decision, accusing them of cowering to pro-Israel pressure. Yasmine Taeb, a human rights lawyer, described the move as “absolutely disgusting” and emphasized that the museum is refusing to acknowledge the reality of Israel’s actions in Gaza, which numerous UN experts and rights groups have described as a genocide.
“Countless genocide scholars and human rights organisations have confirmed what Israel is doing in Gaza is textbook definition of genocide,” Taeb said.
Assal Rad, a researcher with the Arab Center Washington DC, found the controversy “unbelievable” and highlighted the dehumanization of Palestinians, writing, “Palestrians are so dehumanized that they’re excluded from ‘never again,’ apparently their genocide is the exception.”
Hasan Piker, a political commentator, also criticized the museum’s decision, stating, “A real shame that even a tepid general anti-genocide statement was met with unimaginable resistance from Israel supporters.”
This incident reflects a broader debate about the role of Holocaust museums in addressing contemporary genocides and human rights issues.
Some argue that these institutions should maintain a narrow focus on the Holocaust, while others believe they should use their platform to condemn all forms of genocide and advocate for human rights universally.
The controversy surrounding the Holocaust Museum LA’s post deletion underscores the complexities and challenges museums face in navigating these sensitive issues.
The controversy surrounding the Holocaust Museum LA’s deleted post highlights the challenges museums face in navigating sensitive issues.
Some argue that these institutions should maintain a narrow focus on the Holocaust, while others believe they should use their platform to condemn all forms of genocide and advocate for human rights universally.
This debate underscores the complexities of balancing historical significance with contemporary relevance.
The deleted post sparked strong reactions from activists and commentators, with many accusing the museum of cowering to pro-Israel pressure.
Yasmine Taeb, a human rights lawyer, described the move as “absolutely disgusting,” emphasizing that the museum is refusing to acknowledge the reality of Israel’s actions in Gaza. This sentiment is echoed by others who believe that Holocaust museums should take a stand against all forms of genocide, including those happening today.
The backlash against the Holocaust Museum LA’s post deletion may have implications for future activism and advocacy efforts. It highlights the need for clear and thoughtful communication when addressing sensitive topics.
Organizations and individuals advocating for human rights and against genocide may need to consider the potential consequences of their words and actions, especially in the face of intense scrutiny and backlash.
Some supporters of the US Holocaust Memorial Museum have taken a stand against genocide, projecting photographs and slides on the exterior walls calling on the world to “Never Again” tolerate genocide for anyone.
This display shows scenes of atrocities in Gaza with words saying “Stop the Genocide in Gaza,” “Ceasefire Now,” and “Silence=Death.” Such actions demonstrate the ongoing debate and activism surrounding the role of institutions in addressing human rights issues.