ADL Defends Elon Musk’s Gesture, Denies It Was a Nazi Salute [Video]

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has come to the protection of Elon Musk after a controversial gesture by the billionaire sparked outrage and accusations of being a Nazi salute. The group took to social media to make clear that the motion, which was extensively shared and criticized on-line, was merely an “awkward gesture” made in a second of enthusiasm and never an intentional salute tied to hate or extremism.

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In an announcement posted on their Twitter web page, the ADL addressed the controversy:

“This is a delicate moment. It’s a new day and yet so many are on edge. Our politics are inflamed, and social media only adds to the anxiety.

It seems that @elonmusk made an awkward gesture in a moment of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute, but again, we appreciate that people are on edge.”

The ADL went on to emphasise the necessity for understanding and endurance, urging the general public to take a step again throughout what they described as a politically and socially tense interval.

“In this moment, all sides should give one another a bit of grace, perhaps even the benefit of the doubt, and take a breath. This is a new beginning. Let’s hope for healing and work toward unity in the months and years ahead.”

This can be a delicate second. It’s a brand new day and but so many are on edge. Our politics are infected, and social media solely provides to the anxiousness.

It appears that @elonmusk made an ungainly gesture in a second of enthusiasm, not a Nazi salute, however once more, we recognize that persons are on…

— ADL (@ADL) January 20, 2025